Graded readers are short stories written especially for language learners — the vocabulary and grammar are matched to a CEFR level so you can read a complete story without a dictionary in hand. Choose your level below, read a story once for general meaning, then check your understanding with the built-in comprehension questions and vocabulary glossary.
A1 — Beginner
Stories at this level use only the most common 500-750 English words, present simple and past simple, short sentences (6-10 words).
A2 — Elementary
Stories at this level use common everyday vocabulary (top ~1500 words), simple past/present/future, short compound sentences.
B1 — Intermediate
Stories at this level use everyday and some topic-specific vocabulary, a mix of tenses including present perfect, some complex sentences with 'because', 'although', 'when'.
B2 — Upper-Intermediate
Stories at this level use a wider range of vocabulary including some idiomatic phrases, varied tenses (including conditionals and passive voice), longer and more complex sentences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a graded reader?
A graded reader is a short story or book written specifically for language learners, using vocabulary and grammar carefully matched to a CEFR level (A1-C2). Graded readers let learners enjoy complete stories without being overwhelmed by unfamiliar words or complex grammar.
What is extensive reading and why does it help?
Extensive reading means reading a large amount of easy, enjoyable material for pleasure and general meaning, rather than studying every word intensively. Research (notably by Stephen Krashen) shows extensive reading at the right level builds vocabulary, grammar intuition, and reading speed faster than intensive study alone.
Which CEFR level should I start with?
Choose a level where you understand roughly 90-95% of the words without a dictionary. If you're unsure, take the LexFizz English Level Test, or simply try the first paragraph of an A2 or B1 story — if it feels easy, move up a level; if it feels very hard, move down.
How many graded readers are on LexFizz?
LexFizz currently has 8 free graded readers across four CEFR levels: two at A1, two at A2, two at B1, and two at B2. Each story includes comprehension questions and a vocabulary glossary.
Are these graded readers free to use?
Yes. All LexFizz graded readers are completely free to read online or print, with no sign-up required.
Can teachers use these stories in the classroom?
Yes. Teachers can print any story using the 'Print / Save as PDF' button, assign it as homework, or use the built-in comprehension questions for classroom discussion or informal assessment.
How is a graded reader different from a regular short story?
A regular short story is written for native speakers or the general public, without controlling vocabulary or grammar difficulty. A graded reader is deliberately written or adapted to match a specific CEFR level, so learners at that level can read it comfortably and confidently.
How long does each story take to read?
A1 stories (about 300 words) take roughly 3 minutes; A2 stories (about 475 words) take roughly 4-5 minutes; B1 stories (about 650 words) take roughly 6 minutes; B2 stories (about 800 words) take roughly 7-8 minutes.
Should I look up every unknown word while reading?
No. For extensive reading practice, try to guess meaning from context first and keep reading. Save the dictionary (or the story's vocabulary glossary) for words that repeat often or that block your understanding of the whole sentence.
What should I do after finishing a graded reader?
Answer the 'Check Your Understanding' questions without looking back at the text, then check the vocabulary glossary for any words you weren't sure about. Summarising the story in your own words afterwards is one of the most effective ways to reinforce what you read.