Exploring EFL Students’ Reading Comprehension Process through Their Life Experiences and the Sight Word Strategy

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Published: Dec 1, 2010
Keywords:
Construction of meaning, life experiences, reading comprehension, sight word strategy

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Jennifer Camargo
Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Bogotá
Jenny Carolina Orbegozo Navarro
Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Bogotá

Abstract

Due to the role language and literature play in the construction of social, economic and cultural systems, reading comprehension has become a growing challenge. This study examined how the relationship between English as a foreign language reading comprehension and life experiences while using the Sight Word Strategy could prove significant. Fifth graders at a public school in Bogotá participated in this study. Data were collected using tape recordings, field notes, archival data and students’ reflections. Analysis indicated that comprehension and construction of meaning were generated by sharing life experiences and through the interaction produced in each one of the Sight Word Strategy stages. The study suggested further research into a more encompassing definition of reading comprehension and life experiences correlation as an appropriate goal for English as a foreign language.

Article Details

How to Cite
Camargo, J., & Orbegozo Navarro, J. C. (2010). Exploring EFL Students’ Reading Comprehension Process through Their Life Experiences and the Sight Word Strategy. HOW, 17(1), 57–72. Retrieved from https://www.howjournalcolombia.org/index.php/how/article/view/65
Issue
Vol. 17 No. 1 (2010): HOW
Section
Research Reports

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Author Biographies

Jennifer Camargo, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Bogotá

Jennifer Camargo holds a B.Ed. in EFL from Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas. As part of her pedagogical practice, she taught at three public schools in Bogota and two in the USA where she developed an interest in the development of the reading and speaking processes.

Jenny Carolina Orbegozo Navarro, Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas, Bogotá

Jenny Carolina Orbegozo Navarro holds a B.Ed. in EFL from Universidad Distrital Francisco José de Caldas. Nowadays, she is planning to go overseas to continue her studies in the socio-cultural and linguistic fields.

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