The Effect of Cross-curricular Instruction on Reading Comprehension

Cross-curricular objectives serve as a kind of 'safety net' for core objectives. Firstly, cross-curricular objectives refer to competencies that do not pertain to the content of one or more subjects, but that can be taught, practised and applied in it, such as learning to learn and social skills. Secondly, certain cross-curricular final objectives must also be regarded as a complement to the subject final objectives. They render it possible to make the subjects more coherent and interconnected. Several studies show that without enough background familiarity with L2 cultural knowledge, readers have great difficulty in understanding the meaning of texts. This study describes strategies of cross-curricular reading instruction, discusses its benefits, advantages and challenges for teachers or other interested groups who want to encourage their students to explore significant subjects, problems, and questions by providing them with a wide range of reading opportunities. It presents suggestions for teaching themes that focus on what students know, because such themes increase confidence, improve reading skills, expand concepts and background, and foster positive attitudes about reading.