Examination of Active Reading Strategies and Their Role in Improving Reading

Reading comprehension is a critical skill for undergraduate ESL students, influencing both language proficiency and academic performance. This study investigates the effectiveness of guided and structured reading activities on improving comprehension among Pakistani university students. Participants engaged in exercises involving scanning, intensive, extensive, and critical reading, and their performance was assessed through response sheets. Results showed that active participation and the use of dictionaries significantly enhanced understanding, knowledge retention, and the application of diverse reading strategies. Student feedback also indicated increased confidence in English reading skills. The study concludes that integrating structured reading exercises into ESL curricula can substantially improve comprehension and overall academic outcomes.