(by Melisa Marzett)
One who reads a lot knows a lot, a
Russian proverb says. Does it apply to books in English? Is it worth reading?
Previously, literature and newspapers were almost the only sources of
information. In the modern world, you can watch movies, videos, listen to
podcasts to practice English, and receive new information. We offer to figure
out why to read books in English.
1.Increasing vocabulary and improvement literacy
skills
Everyone has their preferences in
the literature. But, regardless of the genre of the book, you will run over the
eyes of a hundred different words in the text. It is an incredibly effective
way to enrich your vocabulary because the vocabulary is always used in context.
Instead of mechanical searching and memorizing words from a dictionary, you can
easily “absorb” them from a book. The more attractive the work, the more
quickly you learn the new vocabulary.
2. Activation of passive vocabulary
You understand the meaning of
many words and use them efficiently in speech. This vocabulary refers to the
active vocabulary. But there are such words and grammatical structures that become
passive. You can guess the meaning of the latter in the context, but do not use
it in speech. Why? Because it is always easier to use a standard set of
phrases, one that you know well. However, it is reading in English that helps
activate passive vocabulary. Your speech becomes richer; you will not notice
how you will begin to speak with the words of your favorite book characters.
3. Studying grammar in practice
The texts in the books are
written correctly so you can see how English grammar works. Cannot figure out
the articles? When reading any book, try to pay attention to each piece and
explain to yourself why it is worth it. Gradually, you will deal with this
topic in practice, and the difficulties with articles will be a thing of the
past.
4. The development of conversational skills
While reading the book, you will
memorize new words and phrases, speech
patterns, and idioms.
Something will be forgotten, but something will remain in memory, and this
knowledge can be used in your speech. The more you read, the more you can say.
Your statement will become more complex and beautiful thanks to reading books.
5. Improving your English pronunciation
Every English learner would like
to sound like a language
speaker. Reading books in
English will help you with this. Read English texts aloud to improve your
pronunciation. In this case, all the words should be familiar to you;
otherwise, you risk memorizing the wrong version of the sound of the word. It
is best to find an audiobook and text to it. First, listen to what the
announcer says: pay attention to the pronunciation of sounds, intonation,
logical pauses, and stress. After that, turn off the audio recording and start
reading the text, trying to copy the pronunciation of the native speaker
exactly. Enough to engage in this way just 10-15 minutes a day, and after a
couple of months, you will feel significant progress.
6. Full understanding of the language and style of the author
Many complain that it is not
unusual to read books in translation; the meaning is distorted by a translator.
Do you want to feel how the characters of Chuck Palahniuk or Jack
London talk? Read their original works! You will be surprised by the new
momentum, apt phrase, humor, different synonyms. Reading the books of one
author, in the future, you will recognize his style, fall in love with every
word.
7. A cure for old age
Reading in any language makes our
brain work, reflect on what we read. And reading in English makes us put twice
as much effort. Such a useful exercise will allow you to develop and keep your
memory and thinking in good shape. British scientists have already proven that
reading is one of the best ways to protect against Alzheimer's disease. If you want
to be healthy, read books in English!
8. Improving concentration
Is it difficult for you to
concentrate on work? Then start reading books in English in the evenings. You
can read both aloud and to yourself. In any case, you will focus on the text,
without being distracted by external stimuli, such as the TV in the next room
or the beloved parrot chirping. In this way, you will learn to concentrate on
one thing that will help you succeed not only in learning English but also at
work.
9. A great hobby and a way to learn something new and interesting
Reading is a great hobby that
suits everyone without exception. And those who make their first steps in
English, and those who are systematically moving to the top, improving their
knowledge of the language. You can read anywhere: at home in a chair with a cup
of tea, in the subway, on the bus. For this, you
need a desire and a book. Before you open the rich world of heroes, characters,
and situations, reading foreign literature, you will learn about the
socio-cultural characteristics of the life of the British, Americans, or
Australians.
10. Increase self-esteem and a sense of pride in yourself
Imagine how great you feel when
you chose a book in English, read it from beginning to end and enjoyed not only
the process but also the result! Learning English is paying off: you can read
and understand, discuss what you read, and share your impressions with friends
or a teacher. It makes you proud of your achievements and motivates you to
further success.
About the author
Melisa Marzett is a freelance
writer who travels a lot and
works for
She is
also a huge fan of reading in general and English literature in particular. Hardly
a day passes without reading and writing for Melisa.
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