Extensive reading and listening are two different approaches to learning a language. Extensive reading is when you read a lot of material for general understanding. You don't need to understand every word or sentence, but you should be able to get the gist of what is being said. Extensive reading is a good way to build your vocabulary and fluency. Intensive reading is when you read a small amount of material carefully and in detail. You focus on understanding every word and sentence, and you may also look up unfamiliar words or concepts. Intensive reading is a good way to learn about a specific topic or to improve your grammar skills. Here is a list that summarizes the key differences between extensive and intensive reading: Extensive Reading Intensive Reading Extensive Reading Goal - General understanding Intensive Reading Goal - Detailed understanding Extensive Reading Material -Large amount of material Intensive Reading Material - Small amount of material Extensive Reading Focus - Getting the gist or important points Intensive Reading Focus - Understanding every word and sentence Extensive Reading Benefits - Builds vocabulary and fluency Intensive Reading Benefits - Improves grammar skills and knowledge of a specific topic The same principles apply to extensive and intensive listening. Extensive listening is when you listen to a lot of material for general understanding. You don't need to understand every word or phrase, but you should be able to get the gist of what is being said. Extensive listening is a good way to build your listening comprehension skills and to improve your pronunciation. Intensive listening is when you listen to a small amount of material carefully and in detail. You focus on understanding every word and phrase, and you may also ask questions to clarify any confusing points. Intensive listening is a good way to learn about a specific topic or to improve your grammar skills.