Speed reading: Use in schools

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Speed reading: Use in schools

What is speed reading?

Speed reading is a method for reading texts significantly faster without losing comprehension. While the average reading speed for an adult is around 200 to 250 words per minute, experienced speed readers can reach 400 to 800 words per minute or more. The goal is not only to read faster, but also to retain the content better and process it more efficiently.

How does speed reading work?

Speed reading is based on several principles and techniques:

- Reducing subvocalization: Many people mentally repeat the words while reading, which significantly slows down their reading speed. Speed reading trains you to minimize this "subvocalization."

- Avoiding regressions: Jumps back in the text, i.e. the repeated reading of what has already been read, are deliberately avoided.

- Expanding the range of vision: Instead of reading word by word, entire groups of words or even sections of lines are taken in at a glance (“chunking”).

- Visual guidance: Aids such as fingers, pens or special cards help to control the gaze and increase concentration.

- Skimming and scanning: Skimming involves skimming the text to identify key statements, while scanning involves searching for specific information.

These techniques challenge and train the brain to absorb and process information more quickly. With regular training, reading speed can be significantly increased without compromising text comprehension.

Speed reading in school lessons

Didactic approach

Speed reading is particularly suitable for use from middle school onwards, when basic reading skills are already established. The method can be used in language classes, but also across subjects to promote general reading skills.

Practical implementation

- Individual training: Short, regular exercises (e.g., 5–10 minutes per day) help improve reading speed. These include rapid word recognition, flashcard reading, or exercises to extend the range of vision.

- Use of aids: wooden sticks, flash cards or window cards support visual guidance and help to direct the gaze.

- Reading speed measurement: Teachers can discreetly measure reading speed to make progress visible without creating competitive pressure.

- Integration into lessons: Speed reading exercises can be incorporated as part of workshop or weekly planning work, as reading breaks or as part of reading lessons[9].

- Raising awareness of reading strategies: Students reflect on their own reading behavior and learn to adapt their reading pace depending on the type of text and the objective.

Example of a teaching unit

1. Introduction to speed reading and goal setting.

2. Exercise: Quickly recognize words or groups of words.

3. Exercise: Reading with a flash card or wooden stick .

4. Reflection: How does speed reading feel? What stays in your mind?

5. Application: Speed reading of a non-fiction text or newspaper article.

6. Check: Short comprehension questions about the text.

Advantages of speed reading

- Time savings: More information can be absorbed in less time. This is especially helpful when working on long texts or preparing for exams.

- Improved text comprehension: Through greater concentration and the ability to grasp the meaning of sections of text, text comprehension often also increases.

- More motivation and enjoyment of reading: Faster progress and a better sense of one's own learning success increase motivation.

- Better memory: The brain processes information more actively, which means that content is stored more sustainably.

- Promoting concentration skills: Speed reading requires and trains a high degree of concentration, which can also have a positive effect on other learning areas.

- Flexibility: Students learn to adapt their reading pace to the type of text and the objective.

- Reduction of stress: Those who read faster are less likely to feel overwhelmed by large amounts of text and are better able to cope with time pressure.

Challenges and limitations

- Entry barriers: Speed reading can seem tiring or overwhelming at first. It requires patience and regular practice.

- Not suitable for all types of texts: Literary texts or poems should still be read slowly and with enjoyment.

- Individual differences: Not everyone benefits equally from speed reading. Therefore, the method should be viewed as a complementary offering.

Speed reading is an effective learning technique that not only increases reading speed but also promotes concentration, motivation, and text comprehension. In a school context, it can be specifically introduced starting in middle school and helps sustainably improve reading skills. It is important to use it methodically and didactically, focusing on the joy of reading and individual progress.

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