Communicative language teaching in reading comprehension

Abstract

Introduction. Comunicative Language teaching (CLT)  is generally believed to be used to teach language for communication and interaction purposes. Therefore, it seems to be more suitable in developing speaking skill. The possibility of applying CLT in the development of other skills such as reading comprehension has not been sufficiently explored. Research Aim. The purpose of this literature review is to examine communicative language teaching and its impact on reading comprehension presenting a case for the consideration at Unidad Educativa Liceo Policial Chimborazo. Methodology. Two electronic databases were searched with a limitation of forty years to reflect the most relevant information. Lists of relevant research were also examined. A total of 32 articles were selected for review. Two themes lead the literature review: ‘Communicative language teaching’, and ‘Reading comprehension’. Key Findings.  It was found that communicative language teaching gives the teacher the opportunity to design programs to explore other aspects of language like reading. Conclusions. Based on the literature reviewed and its preceding discussion, it is concluded that, even though, communicative language teaching has been criticized for focusing more on the communicative aspect of language learning, this method in Ecuador is likely to bolster most students' academic performance rates and improve the overall reading rate of the country.