For elementary school students learning English, reading books is a very effective learning method. In particular, English books are essential for increasing vocabulary and acquiring a feel for the rhythm of the English language.
“But what kind of book should I choose?”
“What are the benefits of reading books in English?”
To answer those questions, this article will introduce the benefits of reading English books, how to choose English picture books for elementary school students, and recommend some books !
1. Benefits of reading books in English
Reading books in English offers the following benefits:
📖 ① Vocabulary increases naturally
By reading books, you can learn words and phrases in context. Learning English words in isolation is less effective than learning them within a story, as you can infer their meaning as you go, making them easier to remember.
📖 ② You can acquire the rhythm and expressions of English.
English books use a unique rhythm and expression that doesn’t exist in Japanese. Learning a language flow closer to that of native English speakers can lead to improvements in listening and speaking skills.
📖 ③ Reading comprehension improves, and a foundation for learning is established.
Becoming accustomed to reading long English texts will make studying English in middle and high school much easier. Furthermore, reading helps develop logical thinking and reading comprehension skills.
📖 ④ Learn English while having fun
The appeal of English books lies in the fact that you can learn while enjoying a story, rather than just studying. When you come across a book that you find interesting, you’ll develop the habit of reading English on your own initiative.
2. Points to consider when choosing English picture books for elementary school students
When choosing English books, keeping the following points in mind will help your child enjoy reading them.
📝 ① Choose a topic that interests you
Choosing genres that children enjoy (such as adventure, mystery, or fantasy) will increase their motivation to read.
📝 ③ Choose one with an interesting story.
If you find a book that interests you, you’ll enjoy reading more if you think of “English = fun!” rather than “English = studying!”
📝 ③ Choose a level that is neither too easy nor too difficult.
The key is to choose a book that you can read with a little effort. Ideally, there should be about 2-3 unfamiliar words per page .
3. Recommended English books for elementary school students (intermediate to advanced)
📖 ① Diary of a Wimpy Kid
- Author : Jeff Kinney
- Vocabulary level : Eiken Grade 3 to Pre-2
- Recommended points :
- There’s a lot of conversation, making it easy to grasp the rhythm of English.
- You can learn slang and casual expressions.
- Since it’s a series, you can read it all in one go.
📖 ② Big Nate
- Author : Lincoln Peirce
- Vocabulary level : Eiken Grade 3 to Pre-2
- Recommended points :
- It’s full of humor and you won’t get bored reading it.
- The simple sentence structure makes it easy to read.
- There are many manga-style illustrations, making it easy to understand.
📖 ③ Magic Tree House
- Author : Mary Pope Osborne
- Vocabulary level : Eiken Grade 3
- Recommended points :
- Each book is approximately 80 pages long, making it ideal for beginners learning extensive reading in English.
- The vocabulary and grammar are at the Eiken Grade 3 level (including present perfect tense and comparative degrees).
- Stories that stimulate intellectual curiosity, such as history and adventure.
📖 ④ The One and Only Ivan
- Author : Katherine Applegate
- Vocabulary level : Eiken Pre-2nd Grade to 2nd Grade
- Recommended points :
- It is written in short sentences and is easy to read.
- Inspiring stories boost your motivation for reading in English.
- It has also been made into a movie, so you can learn along with the visuals.
📖 ⑤ The BFG (The BFG)
- Author : Roald Dahl
- Vocabulary level : Eiken Grade 2 to Pre-1
- Recommended points :
- With simple vocabulary and short sentences, it’s perfect for the Eiken Grade 3 level.
- Roald Dahl’s humorous stories
- The fantastical worldview is enjoyable.
📖 ⑥ Holes
- Author : Louis Sachar
- Vocabulary level : Eiken Grade 2 to Pre-1
- Recommended points :
- It has mystery elements and an interesting story.
- Perfect for practicing reading longer texts.
- Enjoyable with the movie
summary
📖 The benefits of reading books in English
- Improve your vocabulary! → Learn words in context.
- Master the rhythm of English! → Learn conversational expressions and natural phrasing.
- Improves reading comprehension! → Develops the ability to read long texts.
📚Tips for choosing a book
- Choose a genre that interests you.
- Choose a book that you can read with a little effort.
- Choosing a series makes it easier to stick with it.
英語がまったく初心者のご家庭でも安心してご受講いただけます。
まずは無料体験からお試しください！
