The Attitudinal and Motivational Effects of Extensive Reading on Adult ELLs in a Non-Intensive ABE/ESL Program

This study examined the extent to which extensive reading (ER) coupled with sustained silent reading (SSR) impacts the attitudes and motivation toward L2 reading of adult ELLs in a non- intensive ABE/ESL program. While participating in a nine-week SSR program, 17 learners were asked to provide their perceptions of the program and the practice of ER via pretest/posttest questionnaires, weekly reading logs, and semi-structured interviews. In addition to increasing their group average weekly time spent reading for pleasure in English outside of class by 113 minutes, the participants reported that they (1) felt more confident in their L2 acquisition; (2) found L2 reading more enjoyable; (3) developed a greater appreciation for the role of reading in L2 acquisition; and (4) held favorable attitudes towards the practice of SSR. The results suggest that ER has strong potential in cultivating positive L2 reading attitudes and motivation that may lead to increased L2 reading