Improving Online Reading


Readable (Safari)


Safari1

Easy to use built-in tool on Safari web browser. Converts most pages into a format that is easier to read and print.

Details in this short extract from NYT Tech Talk podcast:

Listen to this short discussion from the NYT Podcast:

Readable(Firefox)

Based on the Readability tool (see below). There are similar add-ons available for Chrome & Opera

Readability

Safari2

What does it do?

Allows user to convert pages into readable/printable text (as above). User can install on any browser.

Strengths

Very easy to install and use - simply click button in status bar.

Shorten sentences

Avoid using more than two clauses. Avoid long sentences.


Shorten paragraphs

Three short sentences where possible.


Simplify vocabulary

Avoid 'wordy' phrasing. Avoid long, unfamiliar and/or abstract words. Avoid three syllable words.


Simplify grammar

Avoid complex structures: e.g passive voice, past/future perfect etc . Avoid singular/plural confusion.

Less is more!

Break up blocks of text with illustrations & space

Most students (& teachers!) use the default single-line spacing. This makes text difficult to read.

Here's a simple solution:
  1. Select all the text:
  2. Go to format/paragraph/line-spacing.
  3. Change to 1.5 spacing
  1. Now the text will be much easier to read

Wonderful materials for English language learners!! Ms Fann, ESL teacher, Nashville, USA