One way is to read short stories multiple times. The first time, just get the general idea. Then, on subsequent reads, focus on details like character descriptions, plot twists, etc. Another important aspect is to discuss the stories with others. This could be classmates or teachers. Through discussion, students can gain different perspectives and clarify any misunderstandings they had while reading. Also, making summaries of the short stories in their own words is beneficial for enhancing reading skills.
Well, ESL and EFL students can improve their reading skills with short stories by first familiarizing themselves with the common story structures in English. This gives them an idea of what to expect and helps them follow the plot more easily. They should also practice skimming and scanning techniques. Skimming to quickly get the main point of the story and scanning to find specific information. Additionally, using context clues to figure out the meaning of unknown words is crucial. This not only helps in understanding the current story but also in future reading tasks.