The Effectiveness of Employing Metalinguistic Awareness in Improving Reading Skills

Abstract

This study not only presents significant findings but also invites the audience to be part of the solution. It aimed to examine the effectiveness of employing Metalinguistic Awareness in improving the reading skills of third graders. To achieve its objectives, the study applied a special assessment tool for reading approved by the Jordanian Ministry of Education. The sample of the study consisted of (60) male and female students chosen from a school affiliated with the Aljoun Education Directorate. The students were divided randomly into control and experimental groups. Each group consisted of (30) male and female students. The results, which are of paramount importance, indicated that statistical significances were observed in the reading skills attributed to the teaching method in favour of the experimental group, in the reading skills due to gender in favour of female students, and in the reading skills due to the interaction between the teaching method and gender in favour of female students. This study, in a spirit of collaboration, recommends practical steps for planning Arabic language programs, including incorporating exercises in the activities, making exercises based on awareness of metalinguistic skills (phonology and morphology), and holding training workshops that deal with the educational program based on metalinguistic awareness skills for Arabic language teachers. These recommendations, when implemented, have the potential to significantly enhance reading skills in third graders, with the collective effort of all involved in the education sector.