The Effect of Noise on ESL Students’ Reading Skills in the ESL Reading Classroom

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of environmental noise on the reading abilities of students acquiring English as a Second Language (ESL) within educational environments. Utilizing cognitive load theory alongside research on second language acquisition, the article examines the ways in which noise disrupts reading comprehension and fluency. Additionally, it evaluates empirical evidence demonstrating that different forms of noise—such as ambient conversations, traffic sounds, or classroom discussions—affect ESL learners in distinct ways compared to native speakers. The study concludes by discussing the implications for ESL teaching practices and offering recommendations for future research.