Should you be teaching reading intensively or extensively?
Abstract
The purpose of this paper is to articulate more clearly some of the major differences between intensive reading and extensive reading. These two approaches to reading differ in terms of their theoretical orientations and pedagogical applications, and because of that, they produce differential effects on students’ reading and literacy development. Although both forms of reading are important in improving students’ reading proficiency, L2 teachers are more familiar with intensive reading and are more willing to invest more time in intensive than extensive reading. For a more balanced approach to teaching reading, teachers should become more familiar not only with the theoretical underpinnings of extensive reading but also the practical aspects of implementing an extensive reading program such as how to choose interesting books for the library, how to organize the borrowing system, how to monitor and assess students’ reading, and how to build students’ interest and motivation in reading.
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For more reading on similar topics:
Reading in a Foreign Language: What Else is Important Besides Skills and Strategies?
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