The primary theory underpinning extensive reading is Krashen's Comprehension Hypothesis.
While language learning is a complex field with various pedagogical approaches, the core theoretical justification often cited for the effectiveness of extensive reading is linked directly to Stephen Krashen's work on language acquisition.
Krashen's Comprehension Hypothesis
The main theory underlying extensive reading is Krashen's Comprehension Hypothesis. This foundational idea explains how language and literacy develop in learners.
According to Krashen (2003), the Comprehension Hypothesis posits:
“we acquire language and develop literacy when we understand messages, that is, when we understand what we hear and what we read, when we receive “comprehensible input””.
Key Ideas of the Hypothesis
Let's break down the core components relevant to extensive reading:
- Language Acquisition: This hypothesis focuses on acquisition, which Krashen distinguishes from learning. Acquisition is seen as a subconscious process similar to how children acquire their first language, whereas learning is a conscious process of studying grammar rules.
- Understanding Messages: The critical factor for acquisition is understanding the meaning of the communication received. This means the input (what you hear or read) must be largely comprehensible to the learner.
- Comprehensible Input: This is the central concept. It refers to language input that is slightly above the learner's current level but is still understandable, often with the help of context, prior knowledge, or visuals. Krashen famously denotes this as "i + 1", where 'i' is the learner's current level and '+1' represents the slightly more advanced language structures and vocabulary.
How Extensive Reading Aligns
Extensive reading fits perfectly within the framework of the Comprehension Hypothesis. By reading large quantities of material that is comprehensible and enjoyable, learners receive vast amounts of 'comprehensible input'. This process is believed to lead to subconscious language acquisition, improving vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and overall language fluency naturally, rather than through explicit study of rules.
Summary Table
Here is a brief overview of the key theory:
| Theory Name | Core Principle | Relation to Extensive Reading | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Krashen's Comprehension Hypothesis | Language and literacy are acquired through understanding messages (comprehensible input). | Provides abundant, comprehensible input through enjoyable reading. | Krashen (2003) |
In essence, extensive reading is considered a highly effective method precisely because it provides the essential ingredient – comprehensible input – that Krashen's theory identifies as the engine of language and literacy development.
