Virtual exchanges and COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) allow students in participating classes to communicate with peers around the world, an experience that can be highly motivating for students. These programs often get off to an exciting start when students first meet their counterparts from another country. However, the exchanges soon start to suffer due to a lack of input necessary foster engaging discussions. Extensive Reading provides students with input, but many students lack motivation to read. Combining the two can be a recipe for success. In this session, the presenter will discuss a proposed virtual exchange in which each week, students prepare for a meeting with their partner in another country by reading a graded reader about a different aspect of their partner’s country. Entering the meeting with detailed knowledge of the topic and some related questions can result in more engaging interaction.