BEYOND LANGUAGE: EXPLORING THE COGNITIVE BENEFITS OF READING IN EFL PEDAGOGY

Аннотация

This article investigates the cognitive advantages of integrating reading activities into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in pedagogy. While the primary goal of EFL instruction is language acquisition, this research explores how reading extends beyond linguistic competence to enhance critical thinking, vocabulary expansion, cognitive flexibility, cultural awareness, and memory enhancement. The article reviews relevant literature to support these cognitive benefits and offers effective implementation strategies for educators. KEYWORDS Reading, language acquisition, cognitive development, critical thinking, vocabulary expansion, cognitive flexibility, cultural awareness, memory enhancement.