Abstract

Metacognitive strategy is a high-level learning skill which comprises planning strategy, monitoring strategy, and evaluating strategy. A large number of researches on metacognitive strategy have shown that it is an effective way to improve the ability of English reading. This thesis, based on the researches and theories about metacognition, concretely explores the application of metacognitive strategies in English reading. As the results have demonstrated, for limited time and lack of practice, the traditional way of teaching English reading in Chinese schools is often ineffective. However, an effective application of metacognition in English reading can help the students learn more actively by setting up clearer goals and plans, and gradually developing their abilities of self-monitoring and self-evaluating. What’s more, it can also help them improve their abilities in autonomous learning.

Key words: metacognition, reading comprehension, metacognitive strategies, application
 
摘要

元认知策略是一种高层次的学习技能，它包括计划策略、监控策略和评价策略。大量研究表明，元认知策略能够有效地提高英语阅读能力。本文根据元认知理论，对元认知策略在英语阅读理解中的应用进行了具体的探讨。研究结果表明，传统的阅读教学因时间有限和缺少练习机会，往往效率不高。而在英语阅读中有效地运用元认知策略可以使英语学习者具有更明确的目标和计划，能够积极提升他们的自我监控和自我评价的能力，更重要的是能不断提高他们独立学习的能力。

关键词：元认知；阅读理解；元认知策略；应用

1.    Introduction
With the increasing development of economy and cultural exchange, English proficiency has become an important requirement for the students. And among the four basic language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, reading is by far the most significant skill which plays a vital role in English learning. English reading is paramount, not just because English is learned primarily by means of gaining information through the written language, but also because reading provides the most efficient and hence the most important channel of linguistic input through which students can improve their linguistic competence.