Class 3

TEACHING BASIC READING

Most of us have had some students in our classes who have told us that they do not like to read in their second language—and they often add that they do not even like to read in their first language either.

Many times, students do not like reading because they have never experienced the pleasure that comes from it. So it is very important to find out books and other texts that relate directly to their learners' interests and likes.

Motivation plays a key role in helping students become successful readers. When they recognize why they're reading, they often become more interested in and focused on what they have to do. And when they understand how important the skill of reading is to develop, they're often more motivated to become better readers.

·        For a class based on reading, you can begin asking things related to the name of the reading in order to assist student comprehension and also to make predictions about the test. For example, if students will be reading a test about a ¨magic giant city¨, you may ask questions that help to provide a background.

·        After making predictions, you may introduce a list of words which will appear on the reading. You do not have to teach every word that is on the test, just those that you think the student may not know and are complicated for them. This will help students to learn the meaning of new words and apply those meanings to the understanding of the assigned test. For this activity, you can use pictures or flashcards.

In this case, you will present the flashcard and the students will repeat the pronunciation.. 

·        After showing the flashcards, you and your students begin reading the test. The main purpose during the first reading is to achieve an understanding of the test.

·         The test could be read three times, if your students are from high level, they can participate to read it, and then you can ask questions related to the topic.

·         At the end of the class, you can make an activity like a quiz or may be ask to your student to present a short dramatic play.

Here there is a link where can help you to check short and interesting readings.

http://www.rong-chang.com/qa2/

Note: In addition to books, you can use videos related to short stories where students can  listen to the pronunciation and read the subtittles.