Article Details
  • Published Online:
    March  2026
  • Product Name:
    The IUP Journal of English Studies
  • Product Type:
    Article
  • Product Code:
    IJES090326
  • DOI:
    10.71329/IUPJES/2026.21.1.109-129
  • Author Name:
    Lakshmana Rao Pinninti
  • Availability:
    YES
  • Subject/Domain:
    Arts and Humanities
  • Download Format:
    PDF
  • Pages:
    109-129
Volume 21, Issue 1, January-March 2026
Unlocking the Potential of ESL Readers: Significance and Methodology of Teaching Reading Strategies
Abstract

Developing reading comprehension is a key goal in ESL teaching, as it is an essential academic skill. Research shows that reading strategies can enhance comprehension, and strategy instruction can foster readers’ independence. This study conducts a thematic review of 41 scholarly papers to synthesize and critically examine the literature on ESL reading strategy instruction. The review identifies three key themes: the rationale for teaching reading strategies, teachable reading strategies, and the methodology of teaching them. The third theme includes sub-themes on models and components of reading strategy instruction, concerns over its implementation, and recommendations for effective comprehension strategy instruction. The insights from the critical analysis can help teachers design effective reading strategy instruction to improve their ESL students’ comprehension skills.

Introduction

Reading is an essential skill for ESL students, as it supports their learning across academic subjects. Therefore, developing reading comprehension skills is the principal objective of teaching English.