It’s no secret that reading in English can be challenging. With so many different spellings and pronunciations, English can take a lot longer to become comfortable reading than a lot of other European languages. However, learning to read in English is one of the most important skills you can build as an ESL student. 

Reading provides a different kind of exposure to the English language that’s hard to find in the classroom. For one, you’ll learn new vocabulary by seeing new words in their natural context. You’ll also become more comfortable with different grammatical functions, improving your grammar skills without even realizing it.

If you find reading in English difficult, slow, or even boring, you’re not alone. However, when you use a few techniques, you can make your reading experience a whole lot more enjoyable. If you’re currently taking English classes to improve your skills, discover some reading tips below.

Read Material You Actually Enjoy During English School

While you might think that improving your English skills through reading can only be achieved when you read more difficult texts, that’s not always the case. In fact, one of the most influential factors on your ability to read is the amount of reading that you do. 

If you can find material that you enjoy reading in English, don’t be afraid to use it! While reading more challenging material every so often is important, it doesn’t have to be all that you read. During English school, try finding texts you enjoy reading in English, such as articles about subjects you’re interested in, books and novels, or even short stories.

Reading material you’re interested in will keep you motivated

Speak Aloud as You Read

Reading out loud can improve your ability to learn English while keeping you focused on the material you’re digesting. Try finding somewhere quiet, and reading aloud to yourself slowly and clearly. This practice helps you to draw connections between the act of listening, speaking, and reading, improving your capabilities in each area. You’ll likely develop a better understanding of how words are pronounced while becoming more familiar with new vocabulary.

Read With a Friend

Reading with a friend is another great way to boost engagement as you explore English reading material. If you’re attending our ESL school, you’ll have the opportunity to work with your classmates in groups for a more interactive experience. When reading in a group, you can all take time to summarize and discuss what you’ve been reading and ask any questions you might have. With the support of other English learners, reading is sure to become a more inspiring experience.

Reading with friends during English school can be helpful for engagement

Try Reading Passages Multiple Times

Don’t underestimate the power of re-reading. When trying to understand more difficult passages with unfamiliar vocabulary or phrases, take a moment to read them a few times. The first time you read it, try getting the general idea of what’s happening, without worrying about the things you don’t understand. The next time you read it, you can try looking up new words or phrases. Then, read it again to put the new information you’ve learned into context and link together the passages you understand. Finally, read it once more, aiming for fluency. It might seem time-consuming, but using this process can make reading a lot less intimidating.

Listen and Read at the Same Time

If you find listening to English easier than reading it, you could be in luck. With the use of podcasts and audiobooks, you can listen to the material you’re reading and follow along with your own copy. Not only will this help you to get a feel for how words are pronounced and how sentences work, but it can also be a more enjoyable experience. You can find many free podcasts and audiobooks on the Internet with no shortage of options to choose from.

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