THE MISSING PIECE OF THE ELT PUZZLE

Abstract

Abstract

Alan Maley, a renowned ELT expert, proclaimed that Dadok, or Extensive Reading (ER), is probably ‘the single most important way to improve language proficiency’ (2005, p. 354). And he is not alone; a growing number of ELT scholars and practitioners now are actively promoting ER in the classroom (see www.erfoundation.org). Curiously however, despite strong research evidence that supports Maley’s claim, ER has not become an important part of our L2 curricula. In this presentation, I first discuss the theory behind ER and provide research evidence that supports it. I then present some case studies of how avid L2 readers (students and teachers) developed a high level of proficiency in English. The next part of my talk will touch upon some of the main reasons why the adoption of ER in schools has been slow. I will conclude by offering practical tips on how English teachers in Vietnam can start an ER program in their schools. This presentation is particularly useful for English teachers and lecturers who are interested in helping their students develop a higher level of proficiency in English.

Key Words: E.R,language learning