Learning Grammar and Vocabulary through Reading: A Case Study

Abstract

Many linguists agree that one of the conditions for successful second language acquisition is exposure to large amounts of comprehensible input through listening and reading. A lot of studies have been carried out in order to determine the effects of listening and reading on acquiring aspects of a second language and developing language proficiency. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of extensive reading on the improvement of grammar and vocabulary knowledge. The participant read 15 books of her choice in the course of two months. Before and after the treatment she was tested on her grammar and vocabulary knowledge. The results of the posttests show that there was improvement in both grammar and vocabulary knowledge as a result of extensive reading, which implies that incorporating an extensive reading component in language learning programmes can greatly enhance second language acquisition.