The Reading Venture: Accelerating Language Acquisition.

This presentation describes how to use reading to improve second language acquisition. Part 1, "Building Awareness of Reading Habits and Attitudes," has students report their habits and attitudes about reading in English and their native language and recognize the importance of reading for improving English skills. Part 2, "Choosing a Book," has students choose books, obtain library cards, and check out books. Part 3, "The Venture Begins," helps students understand the importance of reading as a tool to speed up language acquisition and agree to read outside of class by signing a contract. Part 4, "Silent Reading," has students read without interruption for 20 minutes during class. Part 5, "Partner Book Chats," helps students remain motivated by talking to partners about what they are reading, demonstrate understanding by writing in a reading journal, and turn in the journal for teacher feedback. Part 6, "Weekly Inserts," presents exercises to insert into lessons each week before silent reading sessions. Part 7, "Book Critique," teaches students to identify parts of a book and write book reviews. Part 8, "Attitudes and Habits Revisited," has students tally results from a post-survey, analyze results by comparing pre- and post-surveys, and draw conclusions about class reading habits and attitudes. (SM)