EXTENSIVE READING: A STRATEGY TO IMPROVE VOCABULARY, READING SKILLS AND MOTIVATION IN AN EFL B2 COURSE AT THE NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION (UNAE) IN ECUADOR

Authors

  • Julia Sevy-Biloon Universidad Nacional de Educación (UNAE), Ecuador

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46827/ejfl.v6i2.4255

Keywords:

virtual learning, extensive reading, motivation, reading skills, vocabulary

Abstract

Virtual and online classes have added a new level of difficulties to teaching and learning EFL. Teachers must constantly work to find innovative and new practices to engage students and help them improve their English language skills. The professor of an upper-intermediate university level cohort in Ecuador has chosen to do action research in her classroom to improve students reading skills, vocabulary building and motivation to achieve the set competencies of the B2 level. Based on previous experiences the teacher chose to implement extensive reading throughout the semester to improve the mentioned areas. The teacher first observed the areas the students needed help in, implemented a new strategy and activities, reflected on those activities, and implemented a final exam to see if students improved in reading and vocabulary. Through qualitative data analysis, the teacher was able to see students were more motivated, they improved in reading and vocabulary, and they were beginning to learn autonomously. The implementation of extensive reading was a success for most of the students to improve their English skills and can be a strategy that can be utilized in the future.

 

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Author Biography

  • Julia Sevy-Biloon, Universidad Nacional de Educación (UNAE), Ecuador
    Julia Sevy-Biloon has been working in EFL for the last 12 years at different levels of education. For the last 6 years, she has been working at UNAE as a teacher and researcher in the field of EFL. She is interested in methods and strategies for improving EFL in the classroom and in the country.

References

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Published

2022-04-26

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