Improving the Reading Skills of the Primary Grades through Learn to Read Program (LeaRP) at Mangga Elementary School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Reading is also an English skill beside speaking, listening, and writing. It is a way to understand written messages. In this research, the researcher focused on improving the reading skills of readers of Mangga Elementary School. There were various kinds of innovations, interventions, and strategies used. Through the Learn to Read Program initiated by the researcher, the reading problem in the barangay school of Mangga, Bato, Camarines Sur should be hopefully addressed.

METHODS

The researcher used several kinds of research methods. The descriptive-comparative method was done by administering pre-reading and post-reading evaluations. Data on comprehension were gathered through their responses after reading certain stories and passages. Another method used was the survey questionnaire to identify factors affecting the reading ability of learners. Qualitative method was also used in getting the factors affecting their reading skills. There was a significant difference between the previous and present reading status of learners according to the T-test method.

RESULTS

Results found that the reading skills of learners were affected usually by home and community factors. Learners in Barangay Mangga, Bato, Camarines Sur are found to be low in reading performance because of poverty and food scarcity. Accordingly, through this research the reading skills of learners were enhanced through the school and its teacher. Strategies, interventions, and innovations used by the researcher were effectively done as a result of the positive outcome of the program. Most of learners in the 2nd and 3rd Graders are now word and sentence readers because they have been equipped with and even mastered the basics of Alpabetong Batoanun-its corresponding sounds, reading three-letter words or CVC patterns, blending consonant letters, reading words, phrases, sentences, paragraphs and stories.

DISCUSSIONS

This research that focuses on reading skills of learners specifically in a far-flung barangay shows the significant role of family, home, and community factors that can affect the performance and reading ability of learners. Teachers, the school, and other external factors contribute to the improvement of learners’ reading skills. Through these, such difficulties and problems for non-readers will be addressed and lessened.