English Learners —
Abstract of

Chapter 3
Three Roles for Reading for Minority-Language Children

Stephen Krashen

The author argues that reading can play three major roles in language development for minority-language children:

1. In early stages of English-language development, developing literacy in the primary language is a shortcut to English literacy.

2. Once some proficiency in English is achieved, free voluntary reading in English is a clear route to English literacy and the development of academic English.

3. There is no reason to stop reading in the primary language once English is acquired. Continued reading is an important means of developing advanced proficiency in the heritage language.

Krashen, S. (2003). Three Roles for Reading for Minority-Language Children. In G.G. García (Ed.), English Learners (pp. 55-70). Newark, DE: International Reading Association.