Reading is a great way to
increase vocabulary and improve sentence structure. The younger children are when they start reading in a second language, the sooner they become accustomed to understanding the context of what they are reading without getting blocked every time they come across a word they do not understand. It's important for reading comprehension as it is for oral comprehension to get the general idea, to then be able to learn new words and understand their meanings in context. This is the problem that adults and older students have when studying a foreign language because they learn word by word and this slows down the general comprehension and fluency. However, reading books can be difficult if you don't know the correct pronunciation and it makes it a lot easier if you can listen and see the text at the same time.
Oxford Owl is a great online application that children can use to practice their reading skills. It is well presented in a clear and colourful way, and the content is well organized by age, reading level and type of book. Another advantage is that children can pause the book and repeat difficult words or sentences, to improve their pronunciation.
Click on the image to try it.
