This section presents a discussion of the results in response to the research question and hypotheses mentioned in the first chapter.4.3.
1. In response to research question 1: Does extensive reading enhance reading comprehension? Based on the finding of the study, it can be concluded that extensive reading does enhance reading comprehension. This finding yields the similar results as studied by Renadanda, Rajan and Jacobs,(1999) Hafiz and Tudor (1989), Robb and Susser (1989), Mason and Krashen (1997). Many other studies have indicated that extensive reading can be beneficialto students, and can promote students’ reading comprehension. The results of the present study are in line with Segalowitz and Huliston (2005); Pigada and Schmitt (2006 cited in Pazhakh & Soltani, 2010). The above-mentioned scholars believe that the extensive reading can increase reading comprehension and vocabulary learning. Besides, it was shown that extensive reading strategy could lead to continuous vocabulary learning and learners’ achievement in spelling and vocabulary knowledge.
Indeed, studies conducted on the effectiveness of extensive reading on reading comprehension (e.g., Lee, 2007; Bell, 2001; Renandya, 2007; Sheu, 2003; & Yu, 1993) indicate that this strategy can bring enjoyment, motivation, and confidence to the learners.
The findings of these studies which are also in line with this study reveals that through extensive reading students feel more autonomous over their learning, improve overall language competence, enhance their language acquisition and become more aware of what is available tothem to read and how to find materials that expand their vocabulary for reading comprehension. However, based on some studies the general belief is that through extensive reading students feel that they are not under the control of their teacher, in otherwords, they are not limited to read or follow what is presented to them. In contrast, they are free to read what they like without any limitation (Sheu, 2003).4.3.
2. In response to research question 2: Does extensive reading enhance vocabulary recognition? The results of the present study showed that extensive reading could enhance vocabulary recognition. This finding confirms the results of research done by Pitts White, and Krashen (1989), Hafiz & Tudor (1990).
