Unit 2: What is the value of ER in foreign language learning?
Introduction
“Pioneers such as Harold Palmer in Britain and Michael West in India worked out the theory and practice of extensive reading as an approach to foreign language teaching in general, and to the teaching of foreign language reading in particular” (Bamford & Day, 1997). Day & Bamford (1998) highlighted the benefits that have been gained by the undertaking of extensive reading programs. These include gains in reading and writing proficiency, oral skills and vocabulary, an increase in motivation, and positive affect. However, “extensive reading is often overlooked, especially as a classroom activity. Teachers often feel it is not an effective use of class time or is just uncomfortable with the extended silence”. Then, is ER not effective for foreign language learning? In this unit, the target audience will learn and be able to understand the benefits of ER for foreign language learning as well as identify the challenges of ER through looking into some evidence of its effectiveness.
Learning Activities
Pre questionnaire:
- Do you think ER is beneficial for foreign language learning?
- Have you recommended your elementary-level learners read books besides textbooks, workbooks, or grammar books? Why or why not? If yes, how was it?
Let’s watch!
Overall benefits of ER:
The benefits of extensive reading https://www.coursera.org/lecture/esl-reading/the-benefits-of-extensive-reading-WHsoV
After watching the video above, let’s answer the following questions.
- How long will it take to see an effect of ER?
- Will ER be an effective way to increase new words?
- What are the consistent effects of ER?
- What are the challenges of ER and what can teachers do about these?
Let’s read!
What are the benefits of Extensive Reading? http://kierandonaghy.com/seven-benefits-extensive-reading-english-language-students/
Advantages and disadvantages of ER:
Advantages and disadvantages of extensive reading https://www.conferencepublication.com/index.php/aoc/article/download/1253/1351
Effects of ER on vocabulary development:
Does ER help foreign language learners develop vocabulary effectively? As we watched a video at the beginning of this unit, it is not for sure if ER is an effective way to increase vocabulary in the target language. Macalister & Elgort, however, claim that “One avenue for developing second language (L2) vocabulary knowledge is through Extensive Reading (ER). ER can provide opportunities for incidental learning to occur.” ER does help learners develop a deep understanding of words they already know since they come across the same words repeatedly in different contexts while they read many books for fun. Macalister & Elgort also reported the importance and facilitative effects of ER approach for vocabulary development through their investigation. They stated that “supplementing ER with discussion provided opportunities for further development” because “they provide an environment which allows learners to modify their output, leading to increased comprehensibility, complexity, and accuracy” (de la Fuente, 2002; Pica, 1996). ER with discussion provides their students with opportunities to use what students learned and output their knowledge for solid improvement.
Discussion:
- The effects of ER on vocabulary are still not for sure. What are your thoughts?
- What are the benefits of ER in foreign language learning? What are your thoughts? Respond to your peers.
Reflection:
- What did you learn from this unit?
- What do you want to learn more about this topic?
Unit 3: How to implement ER well to support foreign language learning