Interplaying Reading and Writing in ESL/EFL: A Literature Review of Strategies for Indonesian Teachers

Abstract

The importance of integrating reading and writing activities in ESL/EFL classes cannot be overstated, especially in Indonesia where low literacy levels and reading interest present a challenge for teachers. This study conducted a literature review of 120 articles and books over the last 10 years taken from ZLibrary and Google Scholar's free database to identify effective strategies for incorporating reading and writing activities into the classroom that can be applied in many contexts and countries, including Indonesia. It was found that exposing students to various English text structures through these activities can greatly enhance their writing skills. By examining this literature, the study identifies 6 effective strategies for integrating reading and writing activities in ESL/EFL classes, namely summarizing, paraphrasing, short story writing, comparing and contrasting, discovery learning, and project-based learning. Teachers can employ these strategies to interplay reading and writing activities, helping students develop critical thinking skills, vocabulary, and writing abilities. In conclusion, it is clear that integrating reading and writing activities in ESL/EFL classes can provide a comprehensive approach to teaching and nurture students' writing skills, even in countries with low literacy levels and limited reading interest like Indonesia. Future research should explore additional effective strategies for integrating these activities.

The Analysis of Tasks Presented in Kurikulum Merdeka Textbook English for Nusantara

“…Summarizing is essential to learning EFL as it greatly enhances the development of students' language skills. Summarizing is a highly effective strategy for seamlessly incorporating reading and writing activities in EFL classes (Anaktototy, 2023). In addition, summarizing has been recognized as a valuable strategy for improving listening comprehension performance among EFL learners (Khavazi, Yousefi, & Kharaghani, 2018).…”

Catalysts and Challenges in Essay Writing Proficiency among College Students: Insights from Motivation, Literacy, Cognition, and Language Skills

“…Indonesia's low literacy levels and lack of reading interest have presented a challenge for educators seeking to improve students' writing abilities (Anaktototy, 2023). According to the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) research report released by the Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in 2019, Indonesia's literacy level is ranked among the lowest 10 of 70 countries.…”

“…The integration of reading and writing activities in ESL/EFL classes is a crucial step in enhancing students' writing skills, particularly in countries such as Indonesia with low literacy levels and limited reading interest (Anaktototy, 2023). Apsari (2018) said that reflective reading can be used effectively to improve students' writing skill.…”

“…This aligns with research emphasizing the reciprocal relationship between reading and writing skills. The ability to comprehend and synthesize information from reading is vital for effective writing (Anaktototy, 2023;Castells et al, 2023).…”

The Impact of Differentiated Learning in the Merdeka Belajar Curriculum on Elementary School Literacy as the Object of the Kampus Mengajar Program

“…Teachers in Indonesia play a crucial role in nurturing and enhancing students' literacy skills (Anaktototy, 2023;S. Suyatno et al, 2023).…”