Improving the LSRW Skills of the Students

Dr. Radhika Kapur

Abstract
In order to achieve personnel and professional goals, and to sustain one’s living
conditions in an appropriate manner, it is essential for the individuals to bring about
improvements in LSRW skills. These are referred to listening, speaking, reading and writing.
The significance of education is comprehensively acknowledged throughout the country. The
individuals, belonging to all categories and backgrounds aspire to acquire educational
qualifications. But individuals vary in their acquisition of education. Some individuals
acquire higher educational qualifications, whereas, some are just middle school or high
school graduates. Hence, irrespective of the educational qualifications, it is necessary for the
individuals to augment their skills regarding listening, speaking, reading and writing. The
main objective of this research paper is to acquire a satisfactory understanding in terms of
bringing about improvements in the LSRW skills of students. It is essential for the educators
to put into operation, the teaching-learning methods and instructional strategies in such a
manner that would impart not only sufficient information in terms of academic concepts, but
also in terms of LSRW skills. One needs to pay attention on a continuous basis in bringing
about progressions in these skills. Developments in these skills would help in enriching the
overall quality of lives of the individuals.

Keywords: Listening, Reading, Skills, Speaking, Students, Writing

In order to achieve personal and professional goals, it is vital for the individuals to
improve the basic literacy skills of reading, writing and arithmetic (three Rs). When the
individuals possess the basic literacy skills, they are able to generate awareness and carry out
various tasks and activities in a well-organized manner. To carry out the household
responsibilities, make purchases of various items from the market, carry out banking
transactions, make investments, acquire information in terms of various programs and
schemes, cope with problems and challenges and sustain one’s living conditions in an
appropriate manner, it is essential for the individuals to improve LSRW skills. These are
listening, speaking, reading and writing. The most significant aspects of these skills are, they
help the individuals to socialize and form good terms and relationships with other individuals,
within as well as outside the home. To achieve ones desired goals and implement the job
duties in an effective manner, it is vital for the individuals to maintain good terms and
relationships with others.

To establish good terms with others and appropriate communication skills, it is vital
for the individuals to acquire fluency of language. Writing and speaking are regarded as the
two essential aspects of any language. Studying writing and speaking skills are essential for
the students to develop their language skills. Some possess the viewpoint that writing is more
important than speaking and so forth. Some individuals form the opinion that written
language is the reflection of spoken language (Elftorp, 2007). When the individuals possess
efficient writing and speaking skills, then they are stated to have mastered the language. The
fluency of language enables the individuals to develop efficient communication terms with
others. With fluency of language, the individuals are able to participate effectively in
interviews. In educational institutions and within employment settings, they are able to deal
with others efficiently and cope with various problems and challenges that may arise. Hence,
the individuals need to develop eloquence of language in accordance to the community in
which they are residing and jobs in which they are participating.

Listening Skills

Listening skills are essential for learning. When the individuals possess effective
listening skills, then they are not only able to learn various concepts, but they are able to
generate information in terms of various aspects. One of the indispensable ways of
developing ones listening skills is to communicate well with others. Within the
communication process, when one is speaking, it is vital for others to listen and respond.
Listening is a method of communication, which requires the listeners to hear, understand, and
interpret. The ability to listen actively enables the individuals to bring about improvements in
their communication skills and interactive abilities. Furthermore, they are able to reduce
problems and issues, generate awareness, and improve co-operation and understanding
(Sharma, 2011).

The primary aspects that comprise listening are, comprehending, retaining and
responding (Sharma, 2011). When the individuals are listening to a class lecture or
presentation or speech in a seminar or when they are communicating face to face with others
in an educational institution, office, bank, employment setting etc. or within home, then it is
vital for the individuals to maintain eye contact, comprehend and retain information.
Responding does not take place in all areas. For instance, when an individual is giving a
speech or lecture or presentation in front of large number of individuals, then all individuals
may not respond. But when individuals are communicating with one or two individuals, then
it is vital for them to respond adequately. Responses expressed by listeners, enables the
speakers to acknowledge that their speech has been effectual and listeners are paying
attention.

Objectives of Listening

Objectives of listening have been stated as follows:

1. The individuals will be able to augment their communication skills within as well
as outside the home.
2. They would be able to form effective terms and relationships with others.
3. They would be able to augment information, which would enable them to
accomplish their job duties in a well-organized manner.
4. Through effective listening, one is able to provide solutions to various types of
problems and challenges.
5. Effective listening skills enables the individuals to overcome barriers that may
arise with the course of achievement of desired goals and objectives.

Strategies for Developing Listening Skills

The strategies for developing listening skills have been stated as follows:

Acquisition of Language – In order to develop one’s communication skills, it is

essential for the individuals to acquire language skills. Within the classroom setting, when the
individuals are acquiring understanding in terms of English or Hindi lesson plans, then they
are required to listen to what the teachers are communicating to them. Hence, listening is
regarded as the first and foremost step that is implemented towards acquisition of language.
To develop one’s listening skills, it is vital for the individuals to promote acquisition of
language. The teachers and students need to make use of common language to communicate
with each other and develop listening skills.

Listening to Ideas and Suggestions – Problems and challenges are regarded as integral
parts of the lives of the individuals. In some cases, individuals formulate their own measures
and strategies to cope with problems and challenges, but in others, they are required to listen
to ideas and suggestions. When individuals are overwhelmed by problems and difficulties to
a major extent, then it is vital to take ideas and suggestions from professionals and experts.
For instance, within educational institutions or employment settings, when individuals are
required to prepare presentations or work on projects, then they cannot work in isolation. It is
vital for them to obtain ideas and suggestions from others. When individuals need ideas and
suggestions from others for promoting their well-being and generating productive outcomes,
then they pay adequate attention towards augmenting their listening skills.

Promoting Teamwork – Teamwork is regarded as an indispensable aspect in the

implementation of various tasks and activities in educational institutions as well as within
employment settings. One cannot carry out any tasks and functions in seclusion. Hence, to
put into practice various tasks and activities and achieve the targets, it is vital for the
individuals to promote teamwork. In the promotion of teamwork, the individuals are required
to develop mutual understanding and efficacious terms and relationships with others. They
need to develop effectual communication skills and ensure that they take place in a moral and
ethical manner. Hence, promoting teamwork enables the individuals to develop effective
listening skills.

Effective Decision Making Processes – Decision making is regarded as an integral

part of one’s life. In one’s daily life, one is required to make decisions. The decisions can be
major or minor. Major decisions are the ones that even requires the individuals to obtain ideas
from others. Whereas, minor decisions are usually made by the individuals themselves
without consulting others. Within the organizations or educational institutions, when
individuals are required to make meaningful decisions, then normally they need to ensure that
decisions are implemented for promoting well-being of the individuals. In other words, they
should be beneficial to the individuals. Hence, in most cases, when new policies, programs
and procedures are to be initiated, discussion meetings are organized, in which the
individuals are allowed to express their viewpoints and perspectives. The individuals are able
to augment their listening skills by participating in effective decision making processes.

Counselling and Guidance – When the individuals are overwhelmed by problems,

which are having an influence upon their overall living conditions, then they are required to
participate in counselling sessions. Counselling sessions are the sessions, when individuals
are involved in obtaining useful remedies to their problems from experts and professionals.
Counselling is normally concerning careers, psychological problems of depression, trauma,
stress etc., when individuals need to improve their academic learning or in obtaining
solutions to any other problems, they are experiencing. In obtaining counselling and
guidance, individuals are required to possess effective listening skills and put into operation
the methods that are told to them by professional counsellors.

Achievement of Academic Goals – In the present existence, individuals, belonging to

all categories and backgrounds have recognized the significance of education. Even when the
parents are not educated, they aspire to get their children enrolled in schools and acquire
educational qualifications. When the individuals get enrolled in educational institutions, then
they have the major objective of ensuring that they enhance their knowledge and information
in terms of academic concepts in an appropriate manner and achieve academic goals. For the
purpose of acquiring academic information and augmenting their learning, it is vital for the
individuals to possess efficient listening skills. Within the classroom settings, when teachers
are delivering lectures, it is vital for the students to attentively listen, take down notes, ask
questions, primarily concerning their problems and depict regularity in their work.

Accomplishing Job Targets – Within employment settings, individuals have certain

goals and objectives to achieve. In order to accomplish job targets, individuals attend training
programs. The training programs are organized in various organizations. Through attending
these programs, individuals are able to acquire efficient understanding in terms of procedures
and strategies that are needed to be put into operation. Furthermore, these programs enable
the individuals to acquire information in terms of modern, scientific and innovative methods.
Hence, to produce the desired outcomes, individuals need to possess effective listening skills,
particularly to the information imparted by the trainers. The possession of effective listening
skills in the training programs will facilitate in accomplishing job targets and incurring job
satisfaction.

Participation in Social, Cultural, Economic and Political Activities – When the

individuals are required to participate in any types of social, cultural, economic and political
activities, then they are required to generate awareness in terms of various aspects and
enhance information. For rendering an effectual participation in these activities, they are
required to possess effective listening skills. In some cases, especially in concern of the
individuals, who are not experienced, they are required to upgrade their knowledge by
establishing effective listening skills. When the individuals are required to upgrade their
skills and abilities in terms of creative activities, such as, dance, music, singing, role plays,
artworks, handicrafts or regarding sports and physical activities, then also they are required to
adequately listen to the trainers and improve their skills.
 Management of Household Responsibilities – In the management of household
responsibilities, the individuals need to take into account number of aspects. These include,
implementation of repair work, electric work, carpentry, plumbing, painting, preparation of
meals, cleaning, washing and so forth. In order to carry out the household responsibilities,
individuals are required to communicate with others appropriately and possess adequate
listening skills. Individuals may carry out the household responsibilities either on their own
or obtain help and support from others. The other individuals are primarily referred to the
workers, such as, carpenters, plumbers, repair workers, painters, electricians, gardeners,
sweepers, cleaners, cooks and so forth. Obtaining services from these service providers are
regarded as an integral part of the management of household responsibilities. When
individuals communicate with workers, they are able to improve their listening skills.

Communicating with Family Members – Communicating with the family members

establishes the base upon which individuals would be able to improve their communication
skills of speaking, listening, and responding. When parents generate information among their
children in terms of morals, ethics and values, then it is vital for them to effectively listen and
implement them in an appropriate manner. During the early childhood stage, parents make
provision of information to their children that outside their home also there is a world, which
they need to interact with. Hence, when parents are inculcating the traits of morality and
ethics among their children, they are able to develop effective listening skills.

Listening skills are regarded to be of utmost significance, particularly when the

individuals are dedicated towards achievement of personal and professional goals. Apart from
generating information through internet and other reading materials, individuals are required
to communicate with others in an appropriate manner. When they are communicating with
others, primarily to seek ideas and suggestions that would be assisting and beneficial to them
in providing solutions to their problems, they need to possess effective listening skills. Apart
from acquisition of effective listening skills, it is crucial to implement the strategies to
generate productive outcomes. It is vital for the individuals to ensure that they make use of
information that they have listened to for promoting well-being of their families and
communities. Acquisition of proper listening skills would enable the individuals to form good
terms and relationships with other individuals, within as well as outside the home.

Speaking Skills
 Speaking is referred to the process of building and sharing of meaning, through the
use of verbal and non-verbal symbols in the variety of contexts. It is an interactive process of
constructing meaning that involves producing, receiving and processing information (Shrouf,
n.d.). Speaking is regarded as an integral part of one’s life. The primary objective of all
individuals is to participate in tasks and activities, which would help them to sustain one’s
living conditions satisfactorily. In order to learn, acquire information, generate awareness in
terms of various aspects, carry out one’s tasks and functions in a well-organized manner,
achieve personal and professional goals, augment one’s communication skills and establish
good terms and relationships with the other individuals, it is essential for the individuals to
develop effective speaking skills.

When focusing upon the development of speaking skills, the individuals need to
generate awareness in terms of various aspects. These include, morality, ethics, values,
norms, principals and standards. When speaking, individuals need to ensure that they make
use of decent words and take into consideration the traits of politeness and decorum. Another
important factor in case of speaking is, individuals should be clear, fluent and expressive. The
concepts or topics in terms of which they are speaking should be clearly and appropriately
understandable to others. Normally, when individuals are not fluent with the language, then
they join classes. Teaching speaking has not been focused upon to a major extent. When the
teachers are imparting speaking skills to the students, then they primarily focus upon
repetition of drills and memorization of concepts. However, in the present existence, the
dedication of the individuals towards fulfilment of objective of augmenting speaking skills
would bring about improvements in the communication processes of students (Shrouf, n.d.).

With the development of effective speaking skills, individuals would be able to

express themselves in a well-organized manner. They would be able to migrate to other
regions or cities or countries to get enrolled in educational institutions or to acquire
employment opportunities, particularly, when they are aware of the language and are able to
speak efficiently in the common language. In educational institutions and within employment
settings, the individuals employed are different from each other regarding number of aspects.
These include, caste, creed, race, religion, ethnicity, age, gender, and socio-economic
background. Apart from these differences, they have to work in integration and co-ordination
with others. In order to develop mutual understanding and work in collaboration to achieve
common goals and objectives, the individuals need to communicate with others in an
efficacious manner. Hence, for achievement of these objectives, they are required to focus
upon their speaking skills. Acquisition of speaking skills enables the individuals to follow
social and cultural norms, principals and standards.

Strategies to Promote Speaking Skills

When imparting speaking skills to the students, the instructors are required to
implement certain strategies and these have been stated as follows:

Content – The content is referred to the subject matter that is utilized when teaching
certain concepts. When the individuals are learning speaking skills, then they need to ensure
that the content is meaningful. As much as possible, content should be practical and usable in
real-life situations. Within the content, it is necessary to avoid too much vocabulary or
grammar (Shrouf, n.d.). The instructors need to put emphasis upon speaking the language that
students are familiar with. The content provided should generate awareness among the
individuals in terms of various aspects, so they are able to enhance their learning as well as
living conditions in an appropriate manner.

Correcting Errors – The instructors are required to provide appropriate feedback and
correct the flaws and inconsistencies that have been experienced by individuals, within the
course of their learning. When making corrections, it is vital to ensure that the
communication process does not get interrupted. When other individuals are speaking either
on an individual basis or in groups, then it is vital to take notes. Taking notes would not only
enable the individuals to acquire information in terms of topics, but they would be able to
improve their speaking skills. Normally, instructors put the errors down on the blackboard
and ask the students, if they can make corrections.

Conversation Strategies – While speaking, it is necessary to take into consideration

conversation strategies. These strategies primarily focus upon the usage of body language,
postures and gestures. For instance, when one is speaking in terms of a particular topic, then
it is vital to maintain eye contact with the listeners. Arms should be kept open. As when one
fold his arms, then it depicts that he is a closed natured person and is not willing to
communicate with others. While speaking, smiling and keeping pleasant facial expressions is
regarded to be of utmost significance. When one has a pleasant personality, then other
individuals take pleasure in communicating with him or her.

Politeness and Decorum – It is vital for the individuals to be polite and decorous,
while speaking to others. The individuals need to ensure that they make use of respectable,
moral and ethical words and language. When the individuals make use of polite words and
decorous speaking skills, then they are not only able to maintain effective communication
terms with others, but they are also able to accomplish personal and professional goals and
sustain their living conditions in a well-organized manner. Whenever, there are occurrence of
disputes and disagreements, then also the individuals need to ensure that they get resolved in
a peaceful manner.

Teacher Intervention – When teachers feel that students do not take interest in
speaking activities, then they are required to formulate various measures and strategies,
which would allow them to render an effective contribution in enhancement of speaking
skills among students. The various measures and strategies that are put into operation are,
role play activities, debates, discussions, question-answer sessions and other instructional
strategies that would be beneficial to the students. The measures and strategies that are put
into practice by the teachers are normally dependent upon the age-groups of the students,
learning abilities, subjects and concepts, topics of discussions and so forth.

Interaction – Instructors agree to this fact to a major extent that students learn to
speak a second language by interacting. Communicative language teaching is based on real-
life situations that require communication. In speaking classes, students are provided with the
opportunity to interact with each other. Their interactions may be on the basis of formal or
informal conversation. Through interaction, they are able to get engaged in practice sessions
with the purpose of enhancing speaking skills. Interaction is regarded as an integral part of
learning. When the individuals need to generate awareness in terms of various aspects, then
they are required to interact with others. It takes place with instructors, fellow students as
well as other members of the educational institution.

Formation of Communicative Learning Environment – The learning environment

should be created within the classroom in which students should have the opportunity to
communicate with others. Within the classroom environment, students should have the
opportunity to participate in real-life communication, authentic activities and meaningful
tasks that promote oral language (Shrouf, n.d.). The implementation of different tasks and
activities also are regarded as significant in augmenting one’s speaking skills. This usually
takes place, when students collaborate with each other either on an individual basis or in
groups. The primary objective of collaboration or communication is to achieve a goal or to
complete a task.
 Discussions – Discussions are regarded as an integral part of various tasks and
activities in organizations and educational institutions. Through discussions, individuals
normally express their viewpoints and perspectives as well as listen to ideas and suggestions,
given by others. When individuals are working on any assignment or project or they need to
augment their skills and abilities in terms of various aspects, then it is crucial for them to
participate in discussions. Within the educational institutions, normally discussions takes
place between teachers and students and among students themselves. Within home too, when
individuals need to acquire information in terms of various aspects or obtain solutions to their
problems, then too they get involved in discussions with other individuals.

Interviews – Interviews in simple terms are referred to questions and answer sessions.
In conducting interviews, there are two types of questions that are put into practice. These
are, close-ended questions and open-ended questions. Close-ended questions are the ones that
usually involve one word answers, i.e. yes or no. Whereas, open-ended questions are the ones
that involve elaborate explanations. The individuals normally are required to go through
interviews, when they need to get enrolled in higher educational institutions or obtain
employment opportunities. When going for the interviews, they are required to prepare
themselves well by generating information in terms of various aspects, improving speaking
skills and enhancing their personal appearance.

Confidence – When focusing on speaking, it is vital for the individuals to be confident

and overcome apprehensiveness and vulnerability. Confidence is referred to self-reliance,
assurance and sureness. When the individuals are focusing upon their speaking skills to
achieve professional goals, they need to be confident. Lack of confidence is regarded as the
major aspect that proves to be impediment within the course of attainment of professional
goals. When individuals are speaking with family members or community members in terms
of various aspects, then too confidence is regarded as an essential aspect. Hence, it can be
stated that inculcation of confidence helps the individuals to augment their speaking skills,
form effective terms and relationships with others and achieve personal and professional
goals.

Speaking is regarded as the key to communication. In order to communicate with

others in an effective manner, carry out one’s tasks and activities in a well-organized manner
and improve the overall quality of lives, it is crucial for the individuals to focus upon their
speaking skills. When speaking with others within as well as outside the home, it is vital for
the individuals to inculcate the traits of morality and ethics and avoid the usage of any harsh
words. When the instructors are imparting speaking skills to the students, then they need to
be aware of methods and strategies that are required to be put into operation. When the
learners experience problems and challenges in enhancing their speaking skills, then it is the
job of the instructors to make provision of support and assistance to them.

Reading Skills

The concept of reading is understood in different ways. It means understanding,

interpreting, analysing, and assessing. When one makes use of this term in daily life or when
instructors make use of this term within the classroom settings, then they not just mean that
reading is observing the written materials in books, articles, newspapers, magazines, journals,
documents, reports, projects and so forth, but they primarily put emphasis upon that when
individuals are reading, they need to concentrate and acquire an efficient understanding of the
concepts. The individuals get engaged in reading, mainly for two purposes, one is reading to
acquire information that is needed to implement ones tasks and activities in educational
institutions or within employment settings and other is leisure reading. Leisure reading
normally takes place for leisure purposes and individuals normally get engaged into it during
their free time. In some cases, reading becomes difficult, particularly when the individuals are
unable to understand the concepts. In such cases, they need to take assistance from others, i.e.
teachers, fellow students or family members.

The development of reading skills, primarily takes place on the basis of interests of
the individuals. Some individuals do not feel interested in reading and merely read the
materials, as a part of their job requirements. Whereas, in some cases, individuals are avid
readers and spend number of hours reading. In schools, particularly in secondary and senior
secondary levels, within the classrooms, teachers normally tell their students to develop
reading skills. They tell their students that to achieve the desired academic outcomes, apart
from course textbooks, they should also read other books, articles, papers and so forth.
Reading is an integral part of one’s job, particularly in educational institutions or offices. In
these places, individuals are required to make use of computers and internet. When one is
making use of technology for the implementation of tasks and activities, then also they are
required to read. Hence, reading not only takes place through books, articles, papers, projects,
reports or other documents, but it also takes place through usage of computers and mobile
technology.
 The most common use of reading is to acquire an efficient understanding of the
concepts. But apart from this, there are number of uses of reading. These are, absorb, begin,
create, explore, develop, complete, help, improve, remember and write (English, n.d.).
Reading is regarded as the first and foremost step in the learning process. When one has to
initiate a task, absorb information, create, explore, develop, help, complete, improve or
remember, then it is vital for them to read with concentration and attentiveness. Writing is the
stage of learning and understanding after reading. After one has acquired an efficient
understanding of the concepts through implementing reading skills, then the individuals write
down the concepts. Teachers at all levels of education, primarily tell their students that they
should read first, understand and write down the concepts in their own words. This learning
method is efficacious in helping the students to render a desirable academic performance.

Strategies for Improving Reading Skills

The strategies that are implemented for improving reading skills have been stated as
follows:

Improving Existing Knowledge – Less knowledge is regarded as precarious. The

individuals focus upon bringing about improvements in the existing knowledge, especially
when one has to get involved in certain tasks and activities. These include, preparing a report,
article, paper or any written assignment, giving a speech or presentation, participating in
discussions or debates and so forth. When the individuals are required to implement these
tasks successfully, then they need to generate awareness and enhance their knowledge by
reading various materials or making use of technology and internet. Hence, bringing about
improvements in existing knowledge is an important strategy for improving reading skills.

Preparing Speeches and Presentations – In the preparation of speeches and

presentations, individuals are required to acquire understanding of various concepts. First
they read the materials, and then in their own words, they write down the concepts. In some
cases, while giving speeches, individuals make use of written materials, whereas, in others
they simply read the materials and acquire the essential information that would make their
speeches productive. In most cases, within educational institutions as well as within
employment settings, presentations are made, using Power Point. Therefore, individuals need
to acquire efficient understanding of the concepts through reading and prepare their
presentations.
 Implementation of Research Projects – In higher educational institutions, particularly,
when the individuals are pursuing masters and doctoral programs, then they are required to
work on research projects. In order to implement the research project in an efficient manner,
the individuals are required to generate information through reading. The reading that need to
be implemented is extensive. By reading, they are required to conduct analysis of the factors
and then put into practice the measures that are needed for the implementation of research
projects in an appropriate manner. In this case, extensive reading takes place through books,
articles, reports, newspapers, magazines, documents, internet and so forth.

Language Support – When reading, it is vital for the individuals to be familiar with
the language. In some cases, individuals are not fluent with English language skills. Hence, to
augment their fluency in terms of English language, they take classes, in which they acquire
skills in terms of speaking, reading, and writing English. When the individuals are fluent in a
language, then they are able to read various kinds of reading materials in that language.
Another major advantage of language support is, individuals are able to acquire appropriate
understanding of word meanings and sentence structures. In simple reading, they do not
require assistance from others, but in complicated reading, they require explanation of
concepts.

Memorizing – In past decades, in educational institutions, students primarily made use

of memorizing, particularly before their class tests or exams. But in the present existence, it is
rarely used. The reason being, with the advent of technology, individuals are making use of
technology to acquire an efficient understanding of the concepts and seldom make use of this
technique. Research has indicated that students did not feel pleasurable and contented with
this technique. Putting it into practice on a frequent basis, normally caused stress and pressure
among them. Hence, with advancements taking place within the system of education,
teachers normally recommend students to understand the concepts rather than memorising
them.

Generating Awareness – One is able to augment one’s reading skills, particularly

when one generates awareness in terms of particular concepts or aspects. For instance, when
one has to prepare a food item or an artwork, then they may generate awareness and acquire
the necessary information by reading. On the other hand, when one has to plan tourism or
make visits to different places, then too they either surf the internet or obtain other materials
to acquire information regarding places of visit, living accommodation, expenses and so
forth. Hence, reading enables the individuals to even observe pictures and images.

Relevant Reading Materials – Making use of relevant reading materials is regarded to

be of utmost significance, when improving reading skills. When the individuals are reading,
they need to put major emphasis upon the aspects and concepts, in terms of which they are
required to augment their understanding or generate awareness. For this purpose, they are
required to obtain relevant reading materials. In some educational institutions and training
centres, students are required to bring their own reading materials. This is especially in
language support and learning support classes. Therefore, when they are to bring their own
reading materials, they need to ensure that they are meaningful and would prove to be
advantageous in achieving the desired aims and objectives.

Developing Concentration – When one is reading for leisure purposes or when one is
working on an assignment and reading to achieve professional goals. In both these cases, the
individuals need to ensure that they develop concentration and pay adequate attention
towards their reading. When one gets completely absorbed in reading, then individuals
usually tend to neglect other tasks. Hence, from the initial stage, individuals are taught that
apart from implementation of own tasks and activities, it is essential for them to recognize
their responsibilities and pay adequate attention towards other areas as well. Therefore, when
they have other responsibilities to focus upon, individuals need to develop concentration and
have limited time for reading.

Introduction of Activities – Introduction of activities is regarded to be of utmost

significance, particularly when teachers are imparting knowledge and information to the
students in terms of up-gradation of reading skills. The most common activities are referred
to the vocabulary and other items that are found primarily within the subject textbooks. These
units are based upon curriculum materials and some students take responsibility for their own
learning by developing a personal dictionary in terms of various topics, subjects and other
categories of language on a continuous basis (English, n.d.). Normally, instructors are the
ones, who make the decisions regarding implementation of activities. Participation of
students in activities render an important contribution in improving their reading skills.

Generating Awareness regarding Norms, Values and Principles – Improvement in

reading skills is not only considered important in achieving professional and personal goals,
but these are also essential to generate awareness regarding norms, values, principles and
standards. In order to enrich one’s lives and achieve the desired goals and objectives, it is
vital for the individuals to implement these traits in a well-organized manner. Religious texts,
and other books, comprising stories are the ones, which enable the individuals to acquire
efficient information regarding norms, values and principles. These enable the individuals to
become effective citizens of the country and promote well-being of the community and
nation.

Reading is an integral part of learning. It is stated that to sustain one’s living

conditions in an appropriate manner and achieve the desired goals and objectives, individuals
need to possess the basic literacy skills of reading, writing and numeracy. Reading skills are
regarded to be of utmost significance. When the individuals possess effective reading skills,
then they are able to implement various tasks and activities, not only within employment
settings, but also in the management of household responsibilities. There are number of
individuals, who do not possess the basic literacy skills of reading, writing and numeracy.
Due to this factor, they experience impediments within the course of carrying out various job
duties and achieving their goals. Therefore, it is vital for the individuals to focus upon
development of reading skills.

Writing Skills

Writing is an art. Some individuals possess proficient writing skills, whereas, some
individuals do not possess good writing skills. The individuals normally are involved in the
development of writing skills in accordance to their interests and capabilities. From the stage
of early childhood, when individuals get enrolled in pre-schools with the main objective of
developing the foundation for learning, since then they generate awareness in terms of
writing skills. Creating good writers require dedication and wholehearted support from
teachers. In schools as well as in higher educational institutions, students are encouraged to
write and take down notes, when the teachers are teaching. The teachers normally give
practice exercises, give class and home-work assignments and conduct class tests to enhance
the writing skills of students. In various subjects, such as, English, Hindi, mathematics,
science and social science, students are encouraged to enhance their writing skills. Writing is
regarded as an integral part of academic learning.
 Academic writing renders a significant contribution in acquisition of higher
education. In higher educational institutions, when the individuals are pursuing Bachelors,
masters or doctoral programs, then they are required to get engaged in writing to a major
extent. Writing activities mainly involve, preparation of presentations, research papers,
reports, projects and thesis. In the implementation of these tasks, researchers, students and
educationists are required to conduct extensive research and augment their writing skills.
Writing also renders an indispensable contribution in enabling the students to acquire an
efficient understanding of the course content and develop their knowledge. When teachers at
all levels of education are putting into operation, teaching-learning methods and instructional
strategies, in other words, when they are imparting knowledge to the students in terms of
lesson plans, then too, they need to develop their writing skills. Teachers usually make notes
of the lesson plans and provide to the students. Hence, development of writing skills would
enable the teachers to implement their job duties in an appropriate manner.

Strategies for Improving Writing Skills

To bring about improvements in writing skills, it is essential for the individuals to

implement certain strategies. These have been stated as follows:

Reading – Reading is one of the effectual and common strategies that is used to bring
about improvements in writing skills. When the individuals are required to write an essay or
report or speech regarding a particular topic, then it is vital for them to read various articles
and materials related to that topic. Through reading, individuals will be able to acquire an
understanding of the topic and generate awareness. With the acquisition of knowledge, they
will be able to put into practice, writing skills in an efficient manner. Learning and
acquisition of information begins with reading. When one has to develop writing skills, it is
vital for the individuals to read texts, acquire knowledge and then write, using their own
words and language.

Interpreting Texts – Interpreting texts usually means understanding the information

that is provided within the texts. The texts in some cases possess information, which is
manageable and straightforward for the individuals to understand. They are able to acquire an
efficient understanding of the information, simply by reading and do not require assistance
from others. Whereas, in some cases, information is complicated and individuals are unable
to acquire an efficient understanding of the concepts. When they experience difficulties in
interpreting texts, then normally they need support and assistance from others to understand
the information and augment their writing skills. When the individuals have to prepare
articles and documents, then they need to augment their knowledge and understanding.

Writing – When one is writing, there are certain aspects that need to be taken into
consideration. The individuals should depict their own ideas and viewpoints in their writing.
When they are using other sources, it is vital for them to cite the sources and put them in
bibliography at the end of the assignment. These are essential to avoid plagiarism. While
writing, individuals need to take into account certain aspects. These include, grammar,
vocabulary, sentence structure and so forth. Normally, individuals ensure that when they are
writing their articles, they need to use appropriate information, concepts and avoid
grammatical errors. The individuals also implement extensive amount of writing through
emails, journals, instant electronic communication, internet sites and blogs (Pawliczak,
2015).

Establishing Effective Interaction – The teachers and supervisors in educational

institutions are the ones, who need to establish effective interaction with the students to
improve their writing skills. When they are giving them notes in terms of lesson plans, then it
is vital for them to ensure that they are providing them accurate information in the form of
appropriate sentence structure. Imparting knowledge and information in terms of academic
concepts and giving notes enables the teachers and supervisors to establish interactions with
their students. When the students receive adequate information in the form of notes, then they
are not only able to acquire efficient understanding of the concepts, but also improve their
writing skills.

Facilitating Learning among Students – The teachers and supervisors need to ensure
that they put into operation the teaching-learning methods and instructional strategies in such
a manner that would facilitate learning among students. Facilitating learning is primarily
concerned with the understanding of academic concepts. In educational institutions, students
are mostly required to depict their writing skills in implementation of assignments, reports,
projects and so forth. Therefore, it is apparent that when they will be able to acquire an
efficient understanding of the concepts, only then they would depict their writing skills in a
well-organized manner. For this purpose, it is vital for teachers to provide solutions to their
problems and difficulties.

Formation of Amiable Environmental Conditions – In some cases, when individuals

are required to write lengthy assignments or work on research projects, which require
extensive research, then in some cases, they feel apprehensive and vulnerable. The
development of the feelings of vulnerability and apprehensiveness are regarded as
impediments within the course of achievement of desired objectives. Hence, it is vital for the
individuals to create pleasant and amiable environmental conditions within the educational
institutions or organizations. The formation of amiable environmental conditions help the
individuals to provide solutions to problems and challenges and implement their tasks and
activities in an effectual manner.

Writing Books – Some individuals take pleasure in the tasks of research and writing to
a major extent. When they feel pleasurable and contented through getting involved in writing
activities to a major extent, then they even write books. When one is engaged in writing
books, then it is vital for the individuals to generate awareness in terms of topics, concepts
and chapter plans. They need to read number of articles and conduct extensive research,
particularly in terms of areas of study. It is essential for them to follow appropriate
procedures and structures, when writing books. Writing books is time consuming. It may take
months or even years to complete the task. Individuals may author them either singly or may
work jointly with others.

Resolving Issues and Problems – Within the course of development of writing skills,
there are number of issues and problems that individuals need to experience. These include,
problems in understanding the concepts, lack of information, lack of effective communication
skills, problems in vocabulary, grammar and sentence structure, inability to understand the
word meanings and learning disabilities. In order to develop ones writing skills, it is vital for
the individuals to obtain support and assistance from others. These include, their teachers,
supervisors, tutors or family members. The individuals need to obtain proper guidance from
them, so they can help them in resolving all types of issues and problems and augmenting
writing skills.

Making Use of Technology – In the present existence, technology is regarded to be

rendering a significant contribution in enriching acquisition of knowledge and understanding
of the concepts among individuals. In order to develop writing skills, individuals are required
to make use of technology and internet. Through the use of internet, they are able to acquire
information in terms of various concepts and aspects. The individuals normally possess the
viewpoint that through the use of technology, they will depict more efficiency and
resourcefulness in their work, as compared to the work that is implemented in a hand-written
form. When computers are made use of for typing, then one is able to make corrections,
delete unwanted material, increase or decrease the font size and so forth. Hence, they are able
to carry out the function of editing and make the desired changes.

Helping Individuals to Co-operate with Demanding Writing Projects – When

individuals possess the viewpoint that their work is demanding, then normally they feel
pressurized and stressed. The psychological problem of stress that is experienced by the
individuals primarily due to workload, causes barriers within the course of implementation of
tasks and functions. Hence, it is the job responsibility of the instructors and supervisors as
well as the family members to help individuals to co-operate with demanding writing
projects. The main strategies are, individuals should write less but they need to ensure that
they write it well; they should be well-aware in terms of the concepts; they should seek
support and assistance from others and should be motivated towards their work.

The development of effective writing skills not only helps the individuals to pursue
their academic goals, but they are also able to acquire good employment opportunities. In
reputed employment opportunities, also individuals are required to make use of their writing
skills. Apart from development of writing skills, it is essential for the individuals, belonging
to all fields to augment their knowledge and information in terms of technologies. In the
present existence, in educational institutions and organizations, individuals are making use of
computers to prepare articles, projects and other documents. Apart from computers, they are
making use of mobile technology to generate information, send messages and communicate
with others. Hence, the use of technology is facilitating the development of writing skills
among individuals. Through development of writing skills, they are able to sustain their
living conditions and enhance their career prospects.

Conclusion

In educational institutions at all levels, major emphasis is put upon the LSRW skills
of students. The development of these skills would not only enable the students to achieve
academic goals, but they would be able to cope effectively with problems and challenges,
maintain good terms and relationships with other individuals, within as well as outside the
home and sustain one’s living conditions in an appropriate manner. The strategies for
developing listening skills are, acquisition of language, listening to ideas and suggestions,
promoting teamwork, effective decision making processes, counselling and guidance,
achievement of academic goals, accomplishing job targets, participation in social, cultural,
economic and political activities, management of household responsibilities and
communicating with family members. Strategies to promote speaking skills are, content,
correcting errors, conversation strategies, politeness and decorum, teacher intervention,
interaction, formation of communicative learning environment, discussions, interviews, and
confidence.

Strategies for improving reading skills are, improving existing knowledge, preparing
speeches and presentations, implementation of research projects, language support,
memorizing, generating awareness, relevant reading materials, developing concentration,
introduction of activities and generating awareness regarding norms, values and principles.
Strategies for improving writing skills are, reading, interpreting texts, writing, establishing
effective interaction, facilitating learning among students, formation of amiable
environmental conditions, writing books, resolving issues and problems, making use of
technology, and helping individuals to co-operate with demanding writing projects. In order
to ensure that students are able to sufficiently acquire an understanding of these skills, it is
essential on the part of the instructors to generate awareness regarding these strategies and
put into practice the tasks and activities that would render an indispensable contribution in
augmenting student learning. On the other hand, students too are required to inculcate the
traits of diligence, resourcefulness and conscientiousness. Furthermore, they are required to
pay adequate attention, especially when the instructors are teaching.
 Bibliography
Elftorp, F. (2007). How to Improve Students’ Writing and Speaking Skills. Retrieved
June 09, 2019 from http://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:3635/fulltext01

English. Ways to Improve Reading Skills. (n.d.). Retrieved June 10, 2019 from
http://www.elsp.ie/subjectsS/JC/english/English%20Topic%20-%20Ways%20to
%20improve%20reading%20skills.pdf
Pawliczak, J. (2015). Creative Writing as a Best Way to Improve Writing Skills of Students.
Sino-US English Teaching, 12(5), 347-352. Retrieved June 10, 2019 from
http://www.davidpublisher.org/Public/uploads/Contribute/556ecae5d86e4.pdf

Sharma, N. (2011). Strategies for Developing Listening Skills. Institute of Technology

Ghaziabad (UP), India. Retrieved June 09, 2019 from

http://eltvoices.in/Volume1/Issue6/EVI16.2.pdf

Shrouf, F. (n.d.). Teaching and Improving Speaking Skill. Philadelphia University. Retrieved

June 09, 2019 from

http://www.philadelphia.edu.jo/academics/fshrouf/uploads/speaking.pdf