Improving the English Reading Skills of Grade 1 Pupils through "Lunch Ko, Kinabukasan Ko (Feed Me for a Future)" Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Nutrition is important for cognitive and brain development. Poor nutrition contributes to the inefficiency of the educational system. Children with diminished cognitive abilities and impairments naturally perform less well. The irregular attendance of hungry children is one of the key factors that children will not feel comfortable in school activities, no concentration in performing complex tasks, and even can't survive in the whole day activities. Being out of the class resulting in low performance in academics.

METHODS

The purposive sampling was used in the research since all pupils that need immediate attention were picked. Analysis as to who were the respondents to be selected was done based on the cause that emerged during the data triangulation. This action research used the data based on EGRA -ARATA 2nd Quarter 2017 -2018. Other sources of data are SF 2 for attendance and Form 138 to generate viable target respondents for appropriate actions. Data to be collected was utilized to analyze for possible causes and formulate a recommendation as it will be treated during the triangulation.

RESULTS

Out of 28 pupils, 3 are on a non-reader level which is classified as failing pupils. 3 on frustration level, 12 on the instructional level and 10 as an independent level. In the case of the non-reader and frustration level, the students have the possibility to behave less attention in schooling. This what made the teacher prompted to study to find out the causes to formulate a possible solution. On the other hand, it shows also the reasons why pupils have a low-performance rating. Out of 6, 3 pupils were picked as the focus of the study. If these pupils were not given attention, they continue to become weak and less participative in the class activity. The table shows the reading performance of Grade 1 pupils before and after "Lunch Ko, Kinabukasan Ko" Program helped increase of pupils rating after the intervention.

DISCUSSIONS

The reading ability is one of the determinants of pupils' success. Pupils become a proficient reader if they have a habit of reading. It is supported that pupils have many opportunities to improve the reading level. Since reading is considered a backbone of learning, it is necessary to develop metacognition. This helps develop readers' ability to comprehend the text being read. The adverse effect of malnutrition on the cognitive functioning of children is well documented around the world. In particular, the negative effect of undernourished children.