University lecturers share a concern for incoming varsity students who lack the literacy competence to succeed in their courses. Given the strong correlation between reading and literacy, the English Department commenced an innovative and effective reading programme which witnessed positive and enthusiastic results. By engaging students in reading select works of fiction, we were able to increase their comprehension, build their vocabulary and inculcate an individual interest in reading literature. This paper discusses the resultant voluntary reading programme that was organised for first-year students enrolled in English language classes, the theoretical methodology of the programme, its implementation and positive results, especially in the students’ improved English course marks. It also explores ways to configure this programme to extend beyond university boundaries into effective community engagement.

中文翻译：

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通过针对一年级大学生的阅读计划提高识字率

大学讲师对缺乏识字能力以成功完成课程的大学新生感到关注。鉴于阅读与识字之间的密切关系，英语系开始了一项创新而有效的阅读计划，取得了积极而积极的成果。通过让学生阅读精选的小说作品，我们能够提高他们的理解力，建立词汇量并激发个人对阅读文学的兴趣。本文讨论了为参加英语班的一年级学生组织的自愿阅读计划，该计划的理论方法，其实施和积极成果，尤其是在学生英语水平得到提高的情况下。