Principles for Designing Interactive Reading Techniques 1. In an interactive curriculum, make sure that you don't overlook the importance of specific instruction in reading skills. ESL students who are literate in their own language sometimes are "left to their own devices" when it comes to teaching them reading skills. We like to assume that they will simply learn good reading by absorption. In reality, there is much to be gained by your focusing on reading skills.
It is important to make sure that your students have ample time for extensive reading. Sustained silent reading allows students to develop a sense of fluency. Also, silent reading then becomes an excellent method for self-instruction on the part of the learner.
2. Techniques should be intrinsically motivating. One very popular and intrinsically motivating approach to reading instruction is called the Language Experience Approach (LEA). Developed initially for use in native language instruction of children, the LEA has now found its way into numerous ESL classes for both children and adults. The essence of this approach lies in students' self-generation of reading material. Instead of being handed some standard textbook, they create their own! For example,
small groups might each be given the task of creating a story (either a true story or one they make up). Some members of the group collaborate on drafting a written version the story; one or two other students are prepared to pen the words themselves while another illustrates the story. The final products are shared among the groups, who read with great interest the products of their fellow classmates.
3. Techniques should utilize authentic language and contexts By now, the importance of authentic language should be more than clear to "you! But in teaching reading, one issue that has invited a bit of controversy is the advisability of what are called "simplified texts." in which an otherwise authentic text is edited to keep language within the proficiency level of a set of students. In order for you to make a decision on this issue, it is important (1) to distinguish between (a) simple texts and (b) simplified texts and (2) to
understand sources of complexity in reading material. Simple texts that are authentic can either be found out there in the real world or devised. From ads to labels to reports to essays, texts are available that are grammatically and lexically simple. Simplifying, or "doctoring up" an existing short story or description is therefore not only
unnecessary but also is a disservice to students who are thereby deprived of original material with its natural redundancy, humor, wit, and other captivating features.