Assessing the effectiveness of the english curriculum in Qatar’s government schools: a focus on reading and ESL strategies

As Qatar swiftly evolves into a global knowledge economy, proficiency in English has become increasingly essential for education, employment, and international interaction. Students in Qatar's government schools encounter considerable obstacles to English language reading comprehension and acquisition, hindering their competitiveness in a globalized environment. This study assesses the efficacy of the Grade 7 English curriculum by examining textbooks and teaching schedules to determine the degree to which reading is emphasized and ESL strategies are emphasized and integrated into language instruction. This research employs qualitative content analysis to evaluate the curriculum's strengths and weaknesses, emphasizing reading integration, task-based learning, critical thinking, real-world applications, curriculum flexibility, differentiation and cultural relevance. The curriculum exhibits several significant deficiencies, including simplistic reading passages, restricted critical thinking exercises, inflexible pacing, and excessive rote memorization. Students infrequently engage in independent reading and inadequately utilize library resources. Although there is some task-based learning and real-world application, the curriculum is excessively structured, constraining creativity, student and teacher autonomy, and profound engagement. The uniform curriculum impedes both underperforming and advanced students. Therefore, the study advocates for reforms that emphasize prolonged reading passages, comprehensive reading initiatives, and enhanced library accessibility. Furthermore, it promotes enhanced curriculum flexibility, scaffolding methodologies, culturally pertinent content, and augmented task-based learning to improve student engagement and language proficiency. Implementing these recommendations will enhance English instruction in Qatar's government schools, foster a strong reading culture, and prepare students with the linguistic competencies essential for academic and professional achievement in a globalized context.<p></p>