(4.) Which level do the students start with?

The students start at a very easy level, such as Heinemann's 600 word-level books. I believe it is always best to start with the easiest type reading task.

(5.) How fast do the students read?

They read a Heinemann's beginning level (600 word-level) book in 20 to 30 minutes. Or they can read a Heinemann's elementary level (1100 word-level) book in 60-90 minutes. Their reading speed is between 100 to 150 words per minute. I have heard that average native high school students read 200 words per minute and that average college students read 300 words per minute.

(6.) How do you evaluate their progress?

I use three methods: (a.) subjective observation (b.) a reliable cloze test developed by the teacher and (c.) a reading comprehension test.

(7.) What do teachers need to do for preparation?

I think the most important thing is that the teachers themselves must become believers in the approach. Teachers cannot teach what they do not know or what they do not believe in. They need to learn about extensive reading and, then, experience for themselves, what extensive reading is like. They must be convinced that it is beneficial for both themselves (especially when the teachers are non-native speakers of English) and also for their students. This will help the teachers to inspire the students and to motivate them to start reading and to continue reading.

Conclusion

The extensive reading approach has helped my students become good readers. They no longer seem to think that reading is both difficult and unpleasant. They enjoy reading in English and they want to read more.

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