Designing reading tasks to maximise vocabulary learning

Abstract

Most vocabulary learning should occur incidentally through listening and reading. This is one of <br />the reasons why a substantial extensive reading program is an important part of an English <br />course. Extensive reading requires the learners to do large quantities of reading using material <br />that is at the right level for them. Vocabulary learning occurs through the conditions of <br />repetition, retrieval, creative use, and deliberate attention. These conditions can be maximized <br />when reading through the use of narrow reading, repeated reading, linked skills reading, reading <br />with discussion, and deliberate learning through reading with exercises. Computer-based <br />activities can be effective in providing opportunities for deliberate learning, but it is important <br />that deliberate learning does not take time away from extensive reading.