Abstract

GOMEZ RODRIGUEZ, Luis Fernando. Learning Strategies: A Means to Deal with the Reading of Authentic Texts in the EFL Classroom. Signo pensam. [online]. 2016, vol.35, n.69, pp.50-67. ISSN 0120-4823.  https://doi.org/10.11144/Javeriana.syp35-69.lsmd.

English learners usually have difficulties with reading authentic texts because they are mostly used to learning the foreign language with communicative textbooks adapted to their own language levels. Therefore, this case study examined how a group of English learners used learning strategies to read authentic literary materials for the first time in their lives. Data collected through questionnaires, logs, and field notes showed that they became aware of their reading improvement with the help of these strategies. Findings showed that they used mainly four learning strategies: creating mental linkage, summarizing/highlighting, translating, and analyzing. Participants also recognized the contributions of learning strategies in their interaction with authentic texts, including self-regulation, autonomy, and responsibility for reading more purposefully.

Keywords : autonomy; authentic texts/materials; EFL education; learning strategies; self-regulation.

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