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Do We Read the Same Way in Every Language? 

Have you ever noticed that you don’t read in the same way in every language you speak? I recently reflected on this, and I realised that my reading habits change depending on the language, the purpose, and even the format.

When we look at different readers, some holding printed books, others reading on digital devices, we can imagine very different experiences. A person reading a novel in a comfortable position probably chose that book and feels relaxed and engaged. Someone reading a textbook or working on a screen might be concentrating more intensely, perhaps because the text was assigned. Our emotional response to reading often depends on whether it is for pleasure or obligation.

In my case, in Spanish (my L1), I enjoy reading novels and educational books. I prefer reading on paper because it feels more immersive and helps me disconnect. It is usually my leisure time.

In English (my L2), I mostly read teaching blogs, articles, and classroom resources. I also read children’s stories that I later use with my primary students. In this case, I normally read online. My reading in English is more connected to professional development.

I usually read at night, when everything is quiet. And I’ve realised that I don’t just change the language when I read, I also change the purpose, the format, and even the way I feel.