Evaluating the Impact of Descriptive Text on Reading Comprehension: A Case Study in Enhancing ESL Students' Literacy Skills
Year: 2023
Type: article
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: Reading comprehension is crucial for academic success, especially for students learning English as a Second Language (ESL), who often face additional challenges due to language barriers and limited contextual understanding. This study investigates the impact of descriptive texts on enhancing reading comprehension skills among ESL students. By employing a case study approach, this research explores whether the use of richly descriptive passages can improve comprehension by providing contextual cues and relatable imagery that support meaning-making. A cohort of ESL students was selected to participate in a controlled reading comprehension intervention involving exposure to descriptive texts, followed by a comprehension assessment. Their performance was compared to a control group engaged with non-descriptive, factual texts. Data were collected through pre- and post-intervention tests, as well as student feedback, to assess changes in comprehension levels and student engagement. Findings indicate that descriptive texts significantly enhance reading comprehension by enabling students to visualize content, connect with text contextually, and engage more deeply with reading materials. This research contributes to ESL education by highlighting the effectiveness of descriptive text as a tool for improving literacy skills and suggests that incorporating descriptive reading materials may be beneficial in ESL curricula. The study offers insights into practical strategies for educators seeking to foster improved comprehension and engagement in ESL classrooms.
Author: Napitupulu, Merlin Helentina
Institution: University of Timor
Language: English
Subfield: Language and Linguistics
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7217428186