Balanced Reading

Abstract

Balanced Reading is a portfolio that aims to guide a well-balanced literacy curriculum for young EFL learners. The created textbook is specifically designed to combine Intensive Reading (IR) and Extensive Reading (ER) to create a well-rounded reading experience to learners. Improving reading skills occurs through reading vast numbers of various books. Currently in Korea, reading instructions in English classes focus heavily on interpreting short passages or dialogues from textbooks and answering related comprehension questions. In addition, IR classes are mainly concerned with learning vocabulary and grammar because improving test skills is the mandate of Korean education (Yoon, 2014). In such a learning environment, Korean students lack opportunities to read various authentic books and have only limited chances to practice and improve their reading skills and strategies. Balanced Reading is designed to address this issue and attempts to make reading a fun and enjoyable experience while developing literacy skills through various activities.