Journal of Language and Pragmatics Studies
Vol. 5 No. 1 (2026): April 2026

Enhancing critical reading skills through summarizing and paraphrasing strategies to improve comprehension and analytical thinking in learners

Pande Putu Resmia Ovieta (Politeknik Negeri Bali)
I Nyoman Suka Sanjaya (Politeknik Negeri Bali)
Zulfiqar Ali (University of Baltistan, Skardu PAKISTAN)
Ahmet Selçuk Akdemir (Malatya Turgut Ozal University, School of Foreign Languages Türkiye, TURKEY)
Sadia Ayub (Lincoln University College (LUC), MALAYSIA)
Dr. Mahmood Eshreteh (Hebron University, PALESTINE)
Selinay Gündoğan (Social Sciences University of Ankara, TURKEY)



Article Info

Publish Date
11 Apr 2026

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of summarizing and paraphrasing techniques in enhancing reading skills, particularly focusing on developing critical reading abilities. The research employs a mixed-methods approach involving a quasi-experimental design complemented by qualitative analysis. Participants included high school students divided into experimental and control groups; the experimental group received targeted instruction in summarizing and paraphrasing strategies within the context of critical reading exercises. Data were collected through pre- and post-tests assessing reading comprehension and critical thinking, alongside observation and interviews to gain insights into students’ engagement and strategy application. The analysis revealed that students trained in summarizing and paraphrasing demonstrated significant improvement in identifying main ideas, synthesizing information, and evaluating textual arguments compared to the control group. Qualitative findings underscored enhanced metacognitive awareness and deeper engagement with texts when students actively practiced these strategies. The results support the hypothesis that integrating summarizing and paraphrasing into critical reading instruction promotes not only comprehension but also analytical skills essential for academic success. In conclusion, this study highlights the pedagogical value of explicit instruction in summarizing and paraphrasing to cultivate critical reading competencies. It recommends incorporating these strategies systematically in reading curricula to foster higher-order thinking and empower students to become independent, reflective readers.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JLPS

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

The journal covers emerging issues in Language studies, Pragmatics and Discourse Analysis. Preference is given to well-researched papers that expand the frontiers of theoretical or empirical knowledge in these disciplines. It is interested in harnessing top-notched research in these fields worldwide ...