6 Minute English - How reading shapes your brain
Download How reading shapes your brain
Do you remember what it was like before you learnt to read? It's hard to think back that far! Scientific research has shown that learning to read changes the way our brains work. Not only that, but depending on the language you are reading, your brain changes in different ways. Becca and Georgie discuss this and teach you some new vocabulary.
Find a transcript and worksheet at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english_2026/ep-260514
Got another 6 Minutes?
Try Real Easy English to learn from natural English conversations: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/real-easy-english/
Learn English from the biggest news stories from around the world: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/learning-english-from-the-news_2026
Search 'BBC Learning English' in your podcast app to find our other programmes or visit bbclearningenglish.com
Published on Thursday, 14th May 2026.
Available Podcasts from 6 Minute English
We are not the BBC, we only list available podcasts. To find out more about the programme including episodes available on BBC iPlayer, go to the 6 Minute English webpage.