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Abstract: A typical (Slovene) teenager today no longer finds reading materials on the book shelves in the local library, but forms a reading list of electronic sources, very often in English. However, in contrast with an abundance of studies focusing on first language (L1) reading strategies and motivation, not a lot of literature can be found on reading motivation in a foreign language, even though it is perceived as one of the most important factors influencing second language (L2) development. The aim of this research is to determine the influences on reading motivation in English as a foreign language in the group of young teenagers (11-14-year-olds) and a possible transfer of L1 reading attitudes to L2 reading. The theoretical framework relies on Wigfield and Guthrie's (1997) self-efficacy theory and Day and Bamford's (1998) expectancy value model. The data obtained from 197 questionnaires give an insight into not only the frequency of reading in English and the type of reading materials, but also the factors influencing teenagers' reading motivation in EFL.
Keywords: reading motivation, elementary school learners, transfer of reading attitudes
Published in DKUM: 12.10.2017; Views: 1444; Downloads: 147
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Abstract: Reading is a part of communication. Reading is important and the aim of reading is to understand the information given in the text. There is much information that we have to read in our everyday lives. We have to read timetables, newspapers, e-mails, text messages and information on the web; children read when they do exercises or learn. We read because we are interested in something, for fun, or to relax. Reading is a part of the learning process, as well. Reading develops knowledge of and interest in a foreign language. The Reading Badge is a movement that has successfully promoted reading quality literature in Slovenia for over 50 years; The English Reading Badge is an activity that promotes reading a foreign language. Books that are carefully chosen by the teacher provide a rich environment for both language and culture. Apart from choosing materials, the role of the teacher is to train students to use methods and techniques that contribute to better comprehension. The practical examples in the thesis are ideas that I apply with my own students. By reading various books and doing activities in connection with them, we can see how their motivation to read grows and reading improves. Wallace’s statement “We want to give learner-readers a reason for turning the page” (Wallace 151) is more than appropriate here, since it encourages good work on the area of reading.
Keywords: Reading, reading comprehension, reading motivation, reading in a foreign language, The Reading Badge.
Published in DKUM: 25.07.2012; Views: 2886; Downloads: 198
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