English reading comprehension

To really learn English, and to earn one of the Cambridge University language certifications, developing a good understanding of the written language is crucial. Reading practice will indirectly help you improve in all of the other skill areas; you’ll widen your vocabulary, as well as deepen your understanding of English grammar and syntax. It will also help you carry on a conversation or complete any kind of writing project in English. Basically, it all starts with a steady effort to read and develop comprehension.

Here are a few websites that can help:

1. Improve Your Reading Skills

This website is divided into different categories and language levels. You can browse through different reading materials as well as topics, and choose what to read based on difficulty level. After you read an article you can answer comprehension questions. Go to the website and try it out!

2. Famous People

This fun web portal lets you read different famous people’s biographies. These celebrities or historical figures may be living or dead. After reading a biography you take a series of quizzes, so you can memorise vocabulary and sentence structures. If in the past you thought studying English was a bore, go to this site and see for yourself how fun it can be!

3. My English Pages

Here you’ll find even more links and articles covering a wide range of topics. Some of the reading materials can also be quite long. Af the end of each one you’ll find a short comprehension quiz. Check out the site for a bit of reading practice.

4. Grammar Bank

Choose articles to read based on your level; you can choose from all different kinds, as well as get some practice with the exercises provided. This will give you a kick start on your preparation for one of the Cambridge certifications. Go to this great website to start preparing.

5. 5 Minute English

Entertaining articles to read that also come with funny pictures. Important words are highlighted, and plenty of exercises are provided with each article. Pick your favourite topic, or for a truly unique experience you can dive in and read them all! Then answer the comprehension questions provided. Have a look at the site and get started now!

Now when you go to read something after you’ve taken advantage of these excellent websites, the English language won’t seem so daunting. Your newfound experience will also help you develop a wider and more varied vocabulary, and you’ll feel more confident about how to use the words correctly. As you can see, the web is always there to lend a helping hand.