2.3 Reading – Reading Travelogues and Books

 

Reading – Reading Travelogues and Books

(20–25 Marks | PROFESSIONAL ENGLISH)

Introduction

Reading is a fundamental language skill that enhances vocabulary, comprehension, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. Among various forms of reading, travelogues and books play a significant role in improving language proficiency and broadening the reader’s worldview. In Professional English, reading travelogues and books helps learners develop interpretative skills, understand diverse cultures, and improve professional communication.

What is a Travelogue?

A travelogue is a written account of a person’s travel experiences. It combines facts, personal observations, descriptions of places, people, culture, and emotions experienced during a journey. Travelogues may appear as books, articles, blogs, or diaries.

Features of a Travelogue

  • Descriptive language

  • Personal experiences and reflections

  • Cultural and geographical details

  • Chronological narration

  • Informal yet engaging tone

Example:
“The narrow streets of Paris echoed with history, while the aroma of fresh bread filled the air.”

What is Reading Books?

Reading books includes fiction, non-fiction, biographies, autobiographies, novels, and academic texts. Books provide structured knowledge, enhance imagination, and develop deep reading habits essential for academic and professional success.

Importance of Reading Travelogues and Books

1. Language Development

  • Improves vocabulary and sentence structure

  • Enhances reading fluency and comprehension

  • Introduces idiomatic and contextual usage of language

2. Cultural Awareness

  • Travelogues expose readers to different cultures, traditions, and lifestyles

  • Helps students develop global perspectives

3. Critical Thinking

  • Encourages analysis, inference, and interpretation

  • Develops the ability to connect ideas and experiences

4. Professional Skills

  • Improves communication and presentation skills

  • Enhances writing style and content organization

  • Helps in understanding professional and technical texts

Reading Strategies for Travelogues and Books

  1. Skimming – To get the general idea of the text

  2. Scanning – To locate specific information

  3. Intensive Reading – For detailed understanding

  4. Extensive Reading – For pleasure and overall language improvement

Benefits for Engineering and Professional Students

  • Helps in effective report writing and presentations

  • Improves comprehension of technical and non-technical texts

  • Builds confidence in interviews and group discussions

  • Enhances creativity and innovative thinking

Sample Passage (Travelogue Style)

"As I stood at the edge of the Himalayan valley, the silence spoke louder than words. The mountains taught me patience, and the journey taught me resilience."

Conclusion

Reading travelogues and books is an essential component of Professional English. It not only strengthens language skills but also enriches personal growth, cultural understanding, and professional competence. Regular reading cultivates disciplined thinking, effective communication, and lifelong learning habits, making it indispensable for students and professionals alike.

References

  1. Veena Selvam et al., English for Science & Technology, Cambridge University Press, 2021.

  2. Dr. J. Anbazhagan Vijay, Communicative English, Global Publishers, Chennai, 2017.

  3. Raman, Meenakshi & Sharma, Sangeeta, Professional English, Oxford University Press, New Delhi, 2019.

  4. Dr. V. Chellammal, Learning to Communicate, Allied Publishing House, New Delhi, 2003.

  5. Using English, Orient Blackswan, Chennai, 2017.

  6. OER – Authentic Open Educational Resources.

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