Monthly Reading Log: Improve target language reading through frequency

Research has shown that one of the best ways for students to improve their reading proficiency is simply by reading. What they read, however, matters. The best material for students to improve their reading proficiency is material they choose themselves, as that's what they are most interested in and motivated to read.

This reading goal was designed with that research in mind. Teachers of any target language can give this assignment, since it can be customized to the target language as well as student needs. Teachers simply need to change the title of the assignment and the name of the target language on lines 1 and 2. After that, there is space where the number of minutes assigned and assignment due date can be filled in by students when the assignment is given.

The reading log is designed to span four weeks. It asks students to document information about the material read as well as self-assessing comprehension. The assignment also asks for a parent signature.

I suggest students start this kind of target-language independent reading at an intermediate level of language study. I first assign it to French III students midway through the year as well as assigning it to advanced classes.

It is my goal that this simple tool will help students improve their reading proficiency as well as the enjoyment they gain from reading in their target language.