This book addresses basic issues in language education and explores how reading with a focus
on meaning contributes to the development of all aspects of language including vocabulary
spelling grammar and syntax. It departs from traditional methods and practices in language
learning to investigate the potency of reading in improving language acquisition. The
traditional practice in language classes to teach language skills explicitly through acquiring
forms and structures of language is often less than successful and teachers are gradually
incorporating reading materials and practices into the curriculum. This book provides important
inputs to language teachers and educators on the need to include reading as an idea and as a
practice into the curriculum. Among other things it explores the benefits of incidental
learning of language properties such as vocabulary syntax and grammar and gives adequate
exposure to different types of reading strategies to promote reading among learners. It also
exploits the possible transfer of L1 reading strategies and capabilities to L2 reading for
language acquisition. In so doing this book hopes to promote autonomous learning among L2
learners and guide readers in alternative strategies to solve comprehension problems.
