Enhancing the reading skills, using traditional legends of Ecuador with teenagers of “Shiña” high school

Abstract

This study was conducted in order to identify important aspects related to teaching reading to students in their first year of Bachelor atShiña High School. This monographic research proposes reading material based on traditional Ecuadorian legends as a tool to improve reading skills. The lack of motivation to practice reading in these students, and especially the necessity to recover Ecuadorian identity, are the aims around which this project is centred. Both issues found in this research are treated to involve the students in those important aspects of life. This research is based onexploration of literature relating to Ecuadorian culture, traditional legends, as well as the theories concerning the teaching of reading. In the process of gathering data, the interview and the survey were used to discover the interests of the students towards English. The results reflect that legends are very useful in the practice of reading. Thus, the students will improve reading skills, and augment their knowledge about our History and Culture.