Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to find out EFL Teachers’ Perceptions and Pedagogical Practices of Teaching Reading Skills at Fincha primary school grade 8 particularly four sections in focus. To conduct this study, a descriptive research design was employed. A total of 105 respondents (2 EFL teachers, and 103 grade 8 students) were selected as respondents of the study. EFL teachers were selected using comprehensive sampling method while students were selected using systematic sampling technique. Data were gathered through questionnaire, interview, and classroom observation. Data collected for the study were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. Data gathered through close ended questionnaire were analyzed quantitatively. Data obtained through interview and observation was qualitatively analyzed merging them with questionnaire results. The finding of the study revealed that EFL teachers had positive attitude towards implementation of various reading strategies in class rooms. The study also showed that teachers’ perceptions look good regarding presenting various techniques of teaching reading skills in class rooms while presenting reading lessons. As disclosed by the study that letting students guess the meaning of unfamiliar words , including questions in post reading activities, exposing students to extensive reading strategies and activating students to use background knowledge were the major reading techniques implemented in class rooms. The study further revealed that EFL teachers practiced certain pedagogical practices of teaching reading skills such as encouraging students to read various texts and overcome any reading problems, finding effective solutions to classroom difficulties in reading lessons, activating students to use their prior knowledge in classrooms and encouraging students to manage their frustration and to learn from their mistakes while presenting reading lessons. Based on the major finding of the study and the problems adhered, the researcher recommended that EFL teachers need to be sensitized on the differences between their perceptions and their practices and think of ways to improve student reading proficiency by providing them instructions on the use of reading strategies . The study further recommends that teachers need to encourage their students to come with their text book and make the reading lesson enjoyable
