Improving Word Recognition Skills of Selected Grade IV Pupils through "Let's Play, Let's Read Program"

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

It is common knowledge that knowing how to read and write is an indicator that one is educated. It is also an accepted phenomenon that reading is a very relevant part in the development of an individual's whole being. Sto. Nino Central Elementary School encountered different problems especially on the performance of learners. During the conduct of PHIL-IRI Pre-test it was found that 22 pupils from Grade IV classes were identified under frustration level. Most of these pupils have difficulty in pronunciation especially in reading blended words.To address this problem, the researcher employed the "Let's Play, Let's Read Program" or interactive reading. With this intervention, the researcher aimed to improve the word recognition skills on blended words of the respondents because if this problem is not given attention, pupils may graduate in elementary with a poor reading ability or altogether decide to stop schooling for not being able to cope with their daily lessons.

METHODS

The researcher used the descriptive method to determine the effectiveness of the intervention used. The 22 pupils identified as frustration level in word recognition skills in Pre-test of PHIL-IRI were the respondents of this study.Data gathering was based on their word recognition skills before and after the 5-month reading sessions. Three (3) sources of data were used to select target-respondents for appropriate actions. Their PHIL-IRI Pre-test result, interview responses, and post-reading assessment.

RESULTS

After employing the intervention for 5 months from October 2017 to February 2018, it was found that out of 22 pupils, 4 became independent readers, 12 improved to instructional readers, and 7 were still in the frustration level. The result shows that the word recognition skills of some pupils improved, and the intervention program implemented was effective.

DISCUSSIONS

The results show that interactive activities like integrating play or games in teaching provide enjoyment as well as numerous benefits in terms of developing a child's well-being, school skills, and social behavioral skills. Instead of conventional teaching methods in reading which can be somewhat dull and boring, teachers can choose to teach children through fun, interactive learning sessions. Teachers can even use interactive activities to encourage children's interest in learning because playing makes the process much more enjoyable and interesting.