Journal
Language mastery does not only involve speech but reading and writing. In acquiring a second language, I had the pressure of enhancing linguistic competence in English reading and writing especially because the language is also the language of instruction. In this case, I have had to acquire language habits that will enable me improve reading and writing skills and overcome the challenge of learning and using English. In contrast to speech, writing requires more attention in terms of punctuation, grammar and the correct spelling of words. To achieve good writing skill one has to equally pay attention on reading skills as reading enables one to improve spelling, punctuation and grammatical competence as used in writing. Therefore, reading and writing have to be developed concurrently to ensure an effective competence in the language. To do this, I find active reading and summary writing as two skills pertaining to reading and writing that I have to master. I have employed these two skills in reading the book, Into the Wild.
Active reading involves reading habits that enables me to ensure that I am actively involved while reading a text. This means that I cannot passively read a book since it does not guarantee a full understanding of a text. To do this effectively, one has to make notes constantly to guarantee concentration and maximum comprehension of book. Making notes enables me to understand the characters better and the sequence of events as in the book, Into the Wild. I have done this by underlining and highlighting aspects of the book not well understood. As a non-native speaker of English, this enables me to go back to the highlighted content and ensure that grammar and punctuation usage has been well understood. Active reading also allows me to note difficult words and their spellings. Researching on these words help in bringing out meaning and reveal how words can be used in different contexts. This makes it possible for easier understanding of the book.
To improve my writing skills, I have undertaken a summary approach while reading the book. The summary is written after each chapter to gauge my level of understanding and the retention of detail in the book Into the Wild. With the help of active reading, I have been able to develop a clear understanding of the book. Summary requires that I put what I have just read in my own words. This allows me to write creatively and at the same time watch how grammar, spelling, and punctuation has bee used in the summary. Summary is not only used to replicate the ideas presented in a text, but it is also used as a means of developing and maintaining good language use in writing.
The two areas I feel a certain commitment toward making considerable improvement is in reading and writing. Speech is important, but reading and writing sets the pace for my understanding of other subjects in school. If I am able to write well in English, then I am capable to present answers better in examination contexts. Similarly, an improvement in reading skills enables me to understand content not only in English as a subject but also in other areas of instruction. Reading books like Into the Wild using active reading allows me to develop the reading skills for better understanding. Summary writing on the other hand enables me to present ideas effectively and concisely. The ability to present ideas well in writing also sets the pace for better language use in my speech.
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