MODULO 2. READING

In this module we are going to look at reading, not only from the point of view of Second Language Acquisition, as a skill but also as an enjoyable way of engaging with language and our surroundings. As such, particular attention will be given to motivation, quality and choice of the material, as well as to the variety of tasks and their complexity.

REFLECT OF MY READING HABITS

Books have always took part of my life. Since I was a child, I loved reading. It is true that latley I cannot find enough time to read, due to many hours working or practising sports, which are my main activities now. But I usually make good use of time in my holidays and I read as much as I can. I could say that reading is an incredible pastime that I love because it really carries me to other places and worlds.

Some years ago, I was used to read paper books. Three years ago, my aunt gave me an e-book as a Christmas present and it was weird for me at the beginning, but later I got used to it and I think it is the most comfortable book I have read. Actually, I don´t like paper books now.

I like reading a wide variety of genres depending on the moment: drama, novels, romantic stories… However, I have to say that I prefer reading in Spanish. As I work with English language, when I am on holidays or resting at home, I need to truly rest, so reading English is making my mind work again.

MY FAVOURITE READING STRATEGIES

When I work on reading I use lot of strategies but it depends on the class and students’ likes, interests or age.

First of all, when I am going to work on the reading skills with my students, I like them to create expectations, to think about what is going to happen, what they would like to happen or not… I think this is a very important step for reading as it increases students’ motivation towards the text.

I also pay special attention to the skimming step. I usually as my students to have a quick view of the text and I make the some questions.

Then, we usually read the text by taking turns or maybe in groups of four or pairs. After that we read it all together. I also like reading changing our voices so that make them laugh and get motivated.

Finally, I always check reading comprehension through different activities or games. I like doing groups competition in which they have to answer different questions in groups but  make sure everyone in the group knows how to justify it. After they answer all questions I check if all of them have understood the story, making them questions individually.