Readers for
English language learners
Below is a short guide to some
of the most popular series of graded readers.
Macmillan
Heinemann ELT
A wide range of titles -
some original and some simplified - from modern and
classic novels, and designed to appeal to all
age-groups, tastes and cultures.
The books are divided into five levels: Starter Level, with
about 300 basic words; Beginner Level (600 basic words);
Elementary Level (1100); Intermediate Level (1600); and
Upper Level (2200). Some of the titles are also available
on cassette.
Oxford
Bookworms
This series of readers is
aimed at students at six levels from elementary to
advanced. Most are retellings of classic stories using
a vocabulary appropriate for English language
learners. All stages have exercises for classroom or
private use, plus a glossary to help with vocabulary.
ESL recommends:
Washington Square, STAGE
4- 1200
headwords
When a handsome young man begins to court Catherine Sloper,
she feels she is very lucky. She is a quiet, gentle girl,
but neither beautiful nor clever; no one had ever admired
her before, or come to the front parlour of her home in
Washington Square to whisper soft words of love to her.
But in New York in the 1840s young ladies are not free to
marry where they please. Catherine must have her father's
permission, and Dr Sloper is a rich man. One day Catherine
will have a fortune of 30,000 dollars a year . . .
Cambridge English Readers
Cambridge English Readers
is series of original fiction, specially written for
learners of English. Graded into six levels - from
elementary to advanced - the stories in this series
provide easy and enjoyable reading on a wide range of
contemporary topics and themes
Oxford
Progressive English Readers
This popular series of readers has now been completely
revised and updated, using a new syllabus and new word
structure lists.
Readability has been ensured by means of specially designed
computer software. Words that are above level but essential
to the story are explained within the text, illustrated,
and then reused for maximum reinforcement.
Oxford
Storyland Readers
A primary reading series for young learners. Carefully
graded according to twelve levels of reading ability and
controlled using especially designed computer software.
These original stories promote language development and a
sense of achievement in young learners. -
Each reader in the series includes puzzles every four pages
which provide reinforcement of the content.
Comprehension-type questions are provided at the end of the
book and these are designed to check the learners' global
and specific understanding of the story.
The books at levels 7-12 are more factual pieces. The aim
of this is to relate to the learners' own experience and
encourage a genuine interest in reading.
