English Language Journal Vol 4, (2011) 31-48 ISSN 1823 6820

Male Teenagers Need for Extensive Reading

Mariyatunnitha binti Shari Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris

Abstract Access to large amounts of high interest extensive reading materials via the school library is needed especially by students who do not have the means to Internet subscription. A survey was conducted to investigate 14 and 16 year-old male teenagers reading preferences and compared with teachers perception of these age groups reading preferences. Additionally, the provision for reading in the schools studied in terms of material, approaches and time was investigated. The findings indicate that male students interest in reading dropped from second to sixth position in the span of two years between the ages of 14 and 16. By comparison, teachers did not seem to know male students preferences, did not recommend the most appropriate books for male teenagers from different age groups and involved students minimally in choosing books for the library. A small number of teachers set aside time for extensive reading in class. Keywords male teenagers, extensive reading, preferences

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