Tips for Becoming a Better English Reader

How do you feel about reading in English? Are you scared and nervous? Does it take you a very long time to finish reading something?

Here are some tips for you to help you become a better reader in the English Language!

• Reading in your native language and reading in English should not be very different! You can use the same strategies!
• When you read, first ask yourself, “Why?”
  • If you are reading to find specific information, you can just scan
  • If you are reading to find the main idea, you can just skim
  • If you are reading for fun, you can take your time
• When you read, you must put your dictionary away!
• • When you use your dictionary while reading, you can’t understand the story!
    • Using your dictionary when you are in the middle of a sentence will make you forget the sentence. You will have to read the same sentence again, which will slow you down.
• Try to understand the meaning of the paragraphs without looking in the dictionary
• Use the sentences before and after to help you understand the meaning of new words
• If you are reading to find the main idea, knowing every word is not important!
• If you can’t understand a word from the context of the paragraph, finish reading first, then look-up the word in your dictionary.
• Reading faster can actually improve your comprehension!
  • Reading slowly, focusing on every word can distract you from the main point
  • Reading faster can help you see main ideas
    • Check your habits; Do you:
      • Say the words in your mind when you read?
      • Follow the words with your finger or pen?
      • Read every word ?
      • Use your dictionary in every sentence?
    • If these describe your reading, you must STOP!
      • Making the sounds of words is not necessary to understand!
      • Following words with your finger or pens forces your mind to slow down
      • Reading every word is not important for comprehension
      • Your dictionary will make you forget what you are reading