Enhancing the Reading Program of Grade 5 Pupils of Lemery Pilot Elementary School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The first learning experience in school should create a foundation for successful reading program by fostering favorable impression, of which is to be derived from the books and language used. Reading is a skill that most people use daily. In schools, reading is the center of learning of all subjects. It is the most integral component of the education system. Through effective and purposeful reading, pupils can easily develop their intellectual and social development. But the sad thing is, the schools’ biggest problem is the growing number of struggling readers. This study was conducted aiming at finding effective ways of transforming the struggling readers into well-rounded readers. With reading skills, it is expected that the pupils will go on the way they should be and, in the future, be productive and useful members of the Filipino community.

METHODS

The descriptive method of research was employed in the study. Data were taken from pupils’ records and through the questionnaire consisting of a checklist. The researcher also gathered supplemental information through interviews.

RESULTS

The following are the findings in the study:1.17%of the Grade Five pupils are struggling readers. Varied strategies and techniques should be employed and must be suited to the ability of the pupils. It can be noted also that pupils' performance signifies the need of intervention activities to become independent readers.2. Most of the respondents find word recognition as the most common difficulty that they encountered in reading while omission of words is the least among these difficulties. This could affect their performance in reading and their academic achievement and can be attributed to the existing school reading program.3.The reading program being implemented in the school needs to be reformed, modified and restructured in order to meet the prioritized needs in reading development of the pupils.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the foregoing findings, the following were drawn:1.The existing school reading program is expected to be restructured in order to meet the changing needs of the learners in developing their reading skills.2.Pupils should be encouraged to develop interest and love for reading by exposing them to colorful, meaningful and interesting reading materials and a favorable reading environment.3.Reading performance of the pupils should be properly and accurately assessed as basis forthe creation / establishment of effective reading interventions.