Current literature points to the importance and benefits of extensive reading. Extensive reading provides contextualized clues for better reading comprehension (Krashen, 1982), and substantial linguistic input (Bell, 1998) needed for language development. Several studies have found a correlation between extensive reading and specific linguistic skills including breadth of reading choices, improved writing skills, ease in oral communication, and improvement in other aspects of language. Literature already incorporates much simplified reading material that would encourage even beginners to engage in extensive reading; however, there has been insufficient research to explore the effects of extensive reading that utilizes authentic materials. Krashen (2011) specifies a crucial need for continuous research in this area in support of the inclusion of extensive reading in the EFL curriculum. Thus, this researcher attempted to add to the literature by investigating the impact of authentic materials as the main source of extensive reading. This quantitative study employed a pre-and post-test design using a simulated English proficiency test and an attitudinal survey. Other data such as course exams and students' class participation records were also included to increase validity. This study intended to discover the effects of extensive reading using online materials on students' language proficiency, and students' attitudes toward the extensive reading activity. The study results indicated a strong relationship between extensive reading and vocabulary development. Students thought that extensive reading also enhanced their overall English ability and knowledge.

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Standardized testing is widely utilized to determine the levels of children’s learning achievement. There has been a constant debate on how accurately standardized tests reflect children’s achievement. Many practice teachers struggle with teaching to the test to meet the national criteria. An elementary teacher questioned the accuracy of the standardized test and worked with the researcher to seek an alternative form of reading assessment to determine the student’s reading level. The researcher utilized reading inventory, student’s learning records, teacher’s and student’s feedback, and a parental conference to inquire into the issue. The results revealed that although the child was categorized as a low-level reader, the child was a capable reader, only that he read too quickly and tended to miss details of the information he was reading. He adopted reading strategies to assist his reading. This study demonstrated that alternative assessing can be a valuable learning tool for teachers and students.

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Field experience has been considered a vital part of teacher education. Universities have to search for ways for student teachers to gain experience in an authentic teaching environment. Several successful models incorporating service learning have been reported across fields (Brooks & Schramm, 2007; Nandan, 2010; Salas, Safaradan, & Ugarte, 2008), but there is still insufficient research found that combined English teacher preparation and service learning (Hsieh, 2002). Consequently, this researcher incorporated service learning into an English methodology course in Taiwan to engage students in higher learning experiences that take them beyond traditional teacher training. This paper describes a four-stage process of community service teaching, presenting its benefits and challenges. This study which incorporated quantitative and qualitative methodologies proved that teaching practices in collaboration with community libraries created three-way benefits: advancing the quality of college education and bringing valuable learning opportunities to the student teachers as well as the children who participated; and creating memorable experiences for the students and the communities that participated.