Stages of Reading Development in ELT / TQUK TEFL Assignment 6

Introduction
Reading ability is fundamental to English language learning, and understanding the stages of its development can help educators teach more effectively. This article aims to elucidate the roster of stages that lie within the reading development process of second language learners, particularly English learners. Learning to read is a complex process, and it usually involves a progression through distinct stages
1) Emergent Reading Stage
At the emergent reading stage, students are just beginning to grasp the concept of reading in English. They may recognise common words or high-frequency vocabulary but typically rely heavily on visual cues within text, such as pictures and diagrams. Emergent readers might also use contextual clues to predict the meaning of unrecognised words. Developing oral language skills is vital at this stage, as it forms the foundation for learning new vocabulary and understanding sentence structures.
2) Early Reading Stage
During the early reading stage, students start to adopt phonemic awareness, the understanding that words are made of smaller sounds or phonemes. They learn letter-sound relationships (phonics) and start decoding words by blending these sounds. Students at the early reading level also begin to recognise common sight words, phrases, and simple sentences, enhancing their reading fluency. Comprehension is often literal, with learners answering questions directly related to the text.
3) Transitional Reading Stage
During the transitional reading stage, students move from learning-to-read to reading-to-learn. More complex texts are introduced at this level, allowing learners to expand their vocabulary and encounter diverse sentence structures. Comprehension skills also become more advanced, with students being able to make connections, infer meanings, and interpret content beyond what is stated explicitly. Reading fluency is developed as learners read with increasing speed, accuracy, and proper expression.
4) Fluent Reading Stage
In the fluent reading stage, students are comfortable with a wide range of texts, from academic papers to novels. They read with fluency, expression, and comprehension. They can analyse, evaluate, and synthesise information from diverse sources, making inferences and drawing conclusions that extend beyond the text. Learners at this stage can critically interpret text and discuss themes, authors’ purposes, and point of views. With a broad and deep vocabulary, they can understand nuances and complexities within the text.
5) Advanced Reading Stage
At the advanced reading stage, learners can comprehend complex, in-depth English text. They can differentiate between facts and opinions, recognise assumptions, evaluate arguments, and appreciate irony and satire. They can deconstruct intricate text structures and identify stylistic variations in literature. This stage involves honing the skills necessary to become a proficient reader in both academic and real-world contexts.
Conclusion 
The stages of reading development in ELT constitute a progression from basic understanding and decodification of words to a sophisticated interpretation of texts. Each stage provides learners with the tools they need for the next. Teachers can facilitate this journey by providing suitable materials, strategies, and supportive environments that cater to learners’ reading needs at each developmental stage. Understanding these stages can be a catalyst for effective lesson planning, intervention, and teaching in English Language Teaching.