The Role of Fiction in Developing Critical Thinking Skills in ESL/EFL Learners

In today's world, critical thinking is a vital skill for ESL/EFL learners, helping them move beyond memorization to analyze ideas, evaluate arguments, and engage with diverse perspectives. However, balancing language learning with the development of higher-order thinking skills can be challenging. This study explores how fiction can serve as a powerful tool to enhance critical thinking among first-year ESL/EFL students at Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka. Over ten weeks, one group of students engaged in fiction-based learning activities, while another followed a traditional curriculum. The results showed that students exposed to literature developed stronger analytical and interpretative skills, demonstrated greater engagement in discussions, and became more open to multiple viewpoints. Reflections and classroom observations reinforced these findings, revealing deeper reasoning and intellectual curiosity among students. This study highlights the untapped potential of fiction in ESL/EFL classrooms and advocates for its integration to foster both language proficiency and critical thinking.