Reading Newspapers A Practical Way to Improve Language

Learning a language can be a daunting task, as there is no sure-fire technique that guarantees success. In fact, there is no ‘success’ when it comes to learning a language. Instead, language learning is a perpetual process of exploring its various facets—a lifelong endeavour to discover its limitless intricacies. But first, each language learner must build a robust foundation before ascending into the higher echelons of literature. Primarily, they must have a strong hold over the four fundamental pillars of language: reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Reading is a key skill for language learners. Reading a variety of texts can boost one’s linguistic skills considerably. In that regard, reading newspapers is a brilliant way to improve your language. They take less time to read, from around a few minutes to a maximum of an hour, depending on whether one is skimming through them or reading in detail. So, unlike a novel, newspapers can be read in short sittings, which is convenient in numerous scenarios when one has a busy schedule. This works well for both dedicated language students as well as those who want to improve their language but do not have much time to spare. There are a lot of newspapers to choose from nowadays, both in English and Nepali, and each covers a wide range of topics. Consistently developing a habit of reading such papers can do wonders for one’s language skills.

One way a language learner can use newspapers is by reading them aloud. Reciting a text is like visiting a gym. The latter trains the muscles, while the former trains the tongue. Each language is phonetically unique and being fluent is only possible through a great deal of practise. This method of recitation is a simple yet effective technique to practise and develop proper pronunciation and fluency.

Another benefit of reading newspapers aloud is the increased level of focus on the text being read. When one reads articles aloud, they begin to notice and catch new phrases and words that otherwise would have gone unnoticed had they just reflexively skimmed through them. As newspapers pack lots of content into short, dense articles, one can come across loads of new vocabulary in short reading sessions. Whenever possible, one can also write such words down, which will make them ingrained in their memory. Incorporating such new vocabulary into one’s own writing is an efficient technique to improve written language as well. Often, we know many words, idioms, and phrases but forget to use them in our own creations. Noting new words and phrases down helps one recall such words easily when one is writing.

Newspapers deal with a myriad of text types. They include news stories, long opinion pieces, book reviews, feature articles, and so on. This variety caters to a larger audience. Unlike novels, which usually have a particular target audience based on their genre, newspapers are a buffet of different texts, and almost anybody can find something matching their individual interests. Furthermore, this diversity of text types helps readers become familiar with different forms of text. The way language is used differs as per context, and reading a plethora of different types of texts can enhance one's understanding of such conventions. For instance, an avid fiction reader may be well versed in understanding what makes a good fiction story but may not be as good at determining how a review must be written. Therefore, exposure to different text types is quite important to improve language in general, and newspapers are an excellent way to achieve that exposure.

Along with enhancing our language, newspapers inform us of contemporary events and topics surrounding our society, nation, and the world—an added benefit that novels cannot provide. Updating oneself and being conscious of present-day scenarios is indeed necessary; it connects us with society and transforms us into responsible citizens of the nation and the world. Likewise, integrating such contemporary ideas into one’s own composition can make our pieces more compelling and weightier.

At the end of the day, reading is a habit that everyone should cultivate. Especially language learners should aim to read as often as possible to enhance and improve their linguistic skills. Reading the news is just one way to achieve that aim. Nevertheless, it is highly practical, effective, and simple. It not only imparts knowledge about various contemporary topics without taking too much time or delving too deep, but also familiarises readers with various types of texts and vocabulary. Consistent news readers significantly improve their language over time. To reiterate, it is a fabulous way to expand our linguistic skills.

(Anup is an A-level student at Budhanilkantha school.)