The Benefits of Reading in Language Learning

A2-B1 Level Article: (The More Advanced Version for B2-C1 Levels is Underneath)

Hi everyone!

Today, I’d like to share some thoughts about why reading is so helpful when learning a language. As a language learner myself, I find reading to be one of the best ways to improve, and I always recommend it to my students. However, to make the most of it, there are a few important tips to follow.

1. Choose books at your level

It can be exciting to try reading English classics, but if you’re at an A2 level, this can be too much. You may see so many new words that it feels like you’re not even reading English anymore! Instead, start with simpler books, like children’s stories or ones adapted for learners. On the other hand, if you’re more advanced, challenge yourself with books that introduce new vocabulary and ideas.

2. Don’t stop for every new word

When I started learning French, I stopped at every unfamiliar word. But this slowed me down and made reading less fun. Instead, try this: keep reading and focus on words that come up often. Guess their meaning from context, then check them at the end of a chapter. Write them down and practice using them in sentences. This way, you’ll remember them better and understand how they work in real contexts.

3. Pick books you like

If you don’t enjoy fantasy novels in your own language, don’t force yourself to read them in English. Choose topics that interest you, like mysteries, travel, or hobbies. You’re more likely to finish the book and enjoy the process.

4. Use English for everyday information

Whether you’re looking for a recipe, reading the news, or assembling furniture, try to find instructions or articles in English. This creates a mini English-speaking world around you and helps you improve naturally. Make sure the material matches your level so you don’t get frustrated.

5. Keep reading my columns! ;)

That’s all for now. I hope you found these tips helpful.

Happy reading!

The Benefits of Reading in Language Learning

Hello, learners! Today, I’d like to share my thoughts about one of the most effective tools for learning a new language: reading. As a language learner myself, I’ve found reading to be incredibly helpful, and I always recommend it to my students. However, to truly benefit from it, there are some important guidelines to follow. Let’s dive in!

1. Choose Literature Appropriate for Your Level

It can be tempting to dive into English classics while you're still at the A2 level, but this might end up discouraging you. Have you ever tried reading a book and felt overwhelmed by the number of unfamiliar words? It’s like you’re not even reading in English anymore! Instead, choose simpler books if you’re just starting your language learning journey. These could include children’s books or books specifically adapted for language learners.

If you’re an advanced learner, challenge yourself with more complex literature to expand your vocabulary. Don’t stay in your comfort zone—keep pushing your limits!

2. Don’t Stop at Every Unfamiliar Word

When I was learning French, I used to stop and look up every new word. But this made reading frustrating and disconnected me from the story. Instead, try to focus on unfamiliar words that appear frequently. You might even guess their meaning from the context. At the end of a chapter, write these words down and look them up. This method helps you remember the words long-term and understand how to use them in context.

If you find this too challenging, simply underline unfamiliar words and look up their meanings later. Afterward, practice using them by writing sentences or incorporating them into your speech.

3. Choose Books That Interest You

If you’re not a fan of fantasy novels in your native language, you probably won’t enjoy them in English either. Pick books that truly capture your interest. Finishing a book you love is far more rewarding than struggling through something you don’t enjoy just to say you’ve read it. Remember, engagement is key!

4. Find Information in English

Whether you’re assembling a coffee table, looking up a new recipe, or reading local news, try to do it in English. This creates an artificial English-speaking environment and helps you learn language relevant to your interests. Just make sure the material matches your current level so it’s not too overwhelming.