Developing Reading Skills of Grade IV Pupils in Rizal Elementary School through HEART Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Researchers found that reading strategies were the key element in developing pupil comprehension. Grade IV-of Rizal Elementary School has difficulty in reading most especially with words containing three letter consonant blend. Others have fear in reading for they might misread a certain word that can cause bullying. This HEART (Hassle-Free, Enjoyable, and Active Reading Technique) Program that develops learners reading skills to access and use the information is not just learning to read but also reading to learn.

METHODS

To identify the strengths and weaknesses of the pupils in reading, the Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (Phil-IRE) was conducted. This was done during the first quarter of the school year. Thereafter, the results were gathered and consolidated based on the individual results whether the pupils belonged to non-reader, frustration, instructional and independent. The reading competency skills not mastered. It was shown that the pupil's comprehension was low. The HEART Program which was done during the remedial time to address the pupils needs in reading.

RESULTS

Results have shown that 14 out of 17 of the pupils who belong to the frustration level during the Pre Phil-IRE and show an improvement in reading wherein these pupils are considered instructional and the 3 remained at the frustration level during Post Phil IRE. This was after the conduct of the HEART Program. The researcher exerted great time and effort in making the creative instructional materials, big books, flash cards, short stories and video presentation that causes the respondents to be more participative in the teaching and learning process.

DISCUSSIONS

The results revealed that pupils fear in reading turns into a meaningful learning experience. They were more excited and interested because of the implementation of the HEART Program. The Grade IV pupils were more attentive in going to school for they are interested and excited to learn new things in the reading process. They now prefer to read during their free time instead of just playing outside the country. On the other hand, the teacher really plays an important role in molding a child. Through this research, with the support of parents, teachers and School Head, this research somewhat answered the problem encountered inside the classroom and can contribute a good impact to the child.