ELT365 · Day 170 — Authentic vs Graded Readers

Idea — Graded readers simplify vocabulary and syntax to make texts accessible. Authentic texts keep the full complexity. Both have a place — the question is whether you are building fluency or exposing learners to real language.

Example — A B1 learner reads a graded crime novel for fluency. The same learner reads an authentic news article with teacher support to see how real English looks.

Try — Plan one graded reader task and one authentic text activity for the same class this month. Notice what each develops that the other doesn’t.

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