Methods for Developing Students' Critical Reading Skills in English through a Metacognitive Approach

Developing students' critical reading skills is an important objective of modern English language teaching, particularly in higher education. Critical reading enables learners to understand, analyse, interpret, and evaluate written information rather than simply identify its literal meaning. A metacognitive approach can play a significant role in this process by helping students become aware of their own thinking and reading activities. This article examines effective methods for developing students' critical reading skills in English through a metacognitive approach. Particular attention is given to planning, monitoring, and evaluating reading processes, as well as analytical questioning, text interpretation, reflective reading, and self-assessment. The article also highlights the role of teachers in organising metacognitive activities and creating learning environments that promote independent thinking. The application of these methods can contribute to improving students' reading comprehension, analytical abilities, critical thinking, and learner autonomy.