For students who are learning English in an SL/FL context, reading is the most crucial skill to master due to several reasons.. But for learning a foreign language , in this case English
Rationale
English has become increasingly important worldwide, serving as the international language used in many countries and being the mother tongue for over 350 million people Its status as a primary language explains why numerous economic, cultural, and financial organizations adopt English names, and why companies prioritize hiring employees with English skills As a result, English has become a core subject in almost every school across the globe.
Reading is arguably the most extensively studied language skill in the field of language teaching, with decades of research exploring how individuals process textual information These studies have led to contrasting theories about the most effective methods for teaching reading Consequently, language educators must choose from a diverse range of teaching techniques to help students develop their reading skills in a second language (L2) or foreign language (FL).
For students who are learning English in an SL/FL context, reading is the most crucial skill to master due to several reasons According to Harmer
Reading is essential for students due to its significant benefits for both personal development and language acquisition Engaging with English texts can positively influence students' academic progress and future careers while also providing enjoyable reading experiences Additionally, reading enhances students' language skills by improving their writing abilities, spelling, and vocabulary knowledge, making it a vital component of language learning.
Recognizing the importance of reading for student development highlights the need to enhance reading skills through effective teaching methods Implementing proven theories and techniques is essential for improving reading lessons and fostering student literacy This article explores key reading theories and offers practical tips and guidelines to help educators develop their students' reading abilities effectively.
Reading is an essential skill that offers numerous benefits, including entertainment, education, and the opportunity to explore new worlds It enriches your life by fostering imagination and learning, while also improving hand-eye coordination Additionally, reading can enhance social skills by broadening your perspectives and understanding of different cultures.
But for learning a foreign language , in this case English , reading in that language has additional important benefits that can help you learn the language faster and more completely
Reading is an essential skill for language learners When your reading skills improve , your listening, speaking and writing skills improve too
Reading plays a vital role in the English language learning process at Haiphong Management and Technology University (HPU) in Vietnam, where it is emphasized by both teachers and students As English is taught in a non-native environment, reading is not only a means of gaining knowledge but also essential for further study and language development Despite several years of English study, final-year students often struggle with understanding texts due to limited vocabulary, grammar, reading skills, and background knowledge Teachers face challenges in meeting students’ learning demands and integrating new sources of material Additionally, current teaching methods and techniques are generally below international educational standards, impacting the overall effectiveness of English language instruction.
Identifying effective methods to motivate students to improve their English reading skills is essential for enhancing language learning outcomes This study aims to contribute to the overall improvement of English education, with a specific focus on reading proficiency among final-year English majors at HPU It seeks to provide valuable suggestions for teachers to enhance the teaching and learning process of English reading at HPU, ultimately fostering better student engagement and academic success.
This study aims to identify the main causes of reading difficulties among first-year English major students at Haiphong Management and Technology University Additionally, it seeks to propose effective solutions to enhance students' reading skills The specific objectives include analyzing the key challenges faced by students and providing practical recommendations to improve their reading proficiency, ultimately supporting their academic success in the English department.
Firstly, the study focuses on the theory related to reading skill, the awareness of the importance of reading and learning reading methods
Secondly, the study explores the real situation and problems which students have to encounter in learning reading
This study aims to propose effective and productive teaching methods tailored for first-year English major students at Haiphong Management and Technology University The primary goal is to identify strategies that enhance students' language learning experiences and academic success By implementing these methods, educators can improve student engagement and facilitate better language acquisition This research offers practical solutions specifically designed to meet the needs of first-year English majors at Haiphong Management and Technology University, ensuring their academic development is supported and optimized.
The present study focuses on improving the final year English majors’ reading skill at HPU In fact, there are lost of various techniques to study
This graduation thesis focuses on enhancing reading skills among final-year students at HPU, addressing the limited personal research experience of the author Despite numerous material resources and existing studies on English reading, there is a need to identify effective solutions tailored to students’ needs The goal is to analyze various strategies and practical approaches to improve reading proficiency, ultimately supporting students in achieving academic success.
Methods of the study
The study is carried out on the basic of qualitative and quantitative research methods including questionnaires and class observation
Questionnaires are an effective tool to enhance the objectivity of researcher evaluations In this study, first-year students at HMTU completed questionnaires aimed at identifying the main causes of difficulties in reading skills The results provided valuable insights into students' reading challenges and highlighted potential solutions to improve their reading proficiency This approach offers a comprehensive understanding of students' issues, facilitating targeted interventions for reading skill development.
This study analyzes survey data on reading activities conducted at HMTU through collaborative efforts with teachers and students The findings are grounded in careful data analysis of survey responses, including comments, remarks, recommendations, assumptions, and conclusions These insights provide a comprehensive understanding of reading habits and preferences among participants, informing strategies to enhance reading engagement at HMTU.
Besides, more information needed for the study is gathered through other methods such as informal interviews and discussions with teachers and students at HMTU
The result of this expected to be useful for:
To motivate and make enthusiasm the students in the learning process especially in reading teaching and helpful for students will be able to create more enjoyable and meaningful learning
This method makes the teacher easy in teaching reading and this expect to give useful contribution in teaching reading and give another way for the teacher develop student’s reading.
This research useful to improve the quality of education and develop English language teaching of the school
The researcher will improve his knowledge in teaching reading method and have experience in observation and apply with classroom action research at school.
Organization of the study
The research work has three main parts :
Part A - Introduction provides ratonale , the aims , scope , methods , significance and organization of the study
Part B - Development consists of three chapters :
Chapter 3 : Suggestions to improve the reading skill for the final year English major student at HPU
Part C - Conclusion summarizies what is given in previous chapters and limitation of the study as well as recommendations for further study
THEORITICAL BACKGROUND
The difinition of reading
Reading is a vital receptive skill that involves receiving information by interpreting written symbols to understand the author's message Although traditionally viewed as a passive activity, effective reading should be an active process that engages the reader There are many definitions of reading, which can lead to confusion, but it is essential to recognize that reading is a dynamic skill According to Block (1992), reading is often a hidden process that goes unnoticed in the language classroom, with teachers sometimes believing that reading lessons should be teacher-centered Emphasizing active engagement in reading enhances comprehension and learning outcomes.
Reading involves not just recognizing words but also understanding their meaning A language student who says, "I can read it but I do not know what it means," highlights a common misconception about reading According to William (1984), true reading requires comprehension beyond mere decoding of words, emphasizing the importance of understanding in language learning.
Reading plays a crucial role in learning a foreign language by allowing learners to practice and reinforce vocabulary and structures encountered through listening and speaking It helps them understand how to analyze and interpret text, enabling them to extract accurate information efficiently Additionally, the language skills gained from reading can be applied to improve writing, fostering overall language proficiency.
Reading is the process of constructing meaning from written texts It is a complex skill requiring the coordination of a number of interrelated sources of information
Reading is a process of understanding the messages conveyed in a text, allowing readers to grasp the meaning intended by the author It involves interpreting written information to derive meaningful insights, making it essential for effective communication and comprehension.
Reading is a mental process There are many definitions of reading information from the written linguistic message In Longman Dictionary of
Applied Linguistic, reading is said as:
“Perceiving a written text in order to understand its contents This can be done silently (silent reading) The understanding that result is called reading comprehension ’’
Reading is an interactive process, where information is exchanged between the reader and the author, as defined by Brunan W.K (1989) Smith (1973) supports this perspective, emphasizing the dynamic nature of reading through his statement, which highlights the bidirectional interaction essential to understanding and engagement.
“Reading is an act of communication in which information is transferred from a transmitter to a receiver”
As for students, they define reading which cited from Jensen and Petty
Books are filled with countless adventures that captivate the reader's imagination, making them think, "I know it!" as soon as they encounter familiar scenes When reading, words enter your eyes and effortlessly flow from your mind, creating a vivid mental journey This immersive experience highlights how stories come alive through powerful language that engages the senses and sparks curiosity Ultimately, books transform simple words into memorable adventures that stay with us long after we've turned the last page.
Reading is a mental process that requires the integration of various supporting skills, including listening, speaking, and writing, to enhance comprehension and proficiency Developing these complementary skills is essential for effective reading, as they collectively support and reinforce the reader's understanding Mastering these interconnected abilities can significantly improve reading skills and overall language proficiency.
1.1.3 Differences between reading and spoken language
Reading and speaking are both essential communication skills, but they are often viewed as different because speaking is learned naturally, while reading historically required formal education However, modern research shows that reading and speaking have a reciprocal relationship, meaning improvements in one can enhance the other Developing these skills is crucial for both early childhood education and adult learning, highlighting their interconnected importance for effective communication.
Estudia is a fully-grown, highly-educated adult from the fictional country of Estudiantina, where the native language is Estudiaủol As he begins learning English, his ability to speak and read the language will play a crucial role in his future success Developing strong language skills in English is essential for effective communication and achieving his personal and professional goals.
Understanding the purpose and goals of reading a particular text is essential for students to enhance their comprehension and learning efficiency Both teachers and learners should recognize that the purpose of reading varies depending on the type of reading skill being applied Applying appropriate reading strategies enables students to achieve their objectives more quickly and effectively According to Kenneth Beare, an ESL trainer and developer, mastering the four main types of reading skills is crucial for improving overall reading proficiency.
Skimming: reading rapidly for the main points
Scanning: Reading rapidly to finda specificpieceof information
Extensive reading: reading a longer text, often for pleasure with emphasis on overall meaning
Skimming is a reading technique that involves rapidly going through a text by sampling it at various points, making it distinct from general rapid reading This method is widely used in reading comprehension to quickly identify important information Additionally, skimming often serves as a prerequisite for in-depth reading, helping readers determine whether a full understanding of the material is necessary.
There are many definitions of skimming, Grellet (1981: 19) states that
Skimming is a reading technique that involves quickly going through the material to grasp its general idea, organization, tone, or writer's intention The main purpose of skimming is to identify what a text is about by previewing sections such as the table of contents, chapter headings, and subheadings Teachers can enhance skimming skills by encouraging students to read the beginning or end of a text, which often provides key information about the topic This method allows students to predict the main purpose, message, and supporting ideas, giving them a "head start" for more focused reading Additionally, skimming helps students organize their thoughts and determine which information is worth studying in detail, making subsequent reading more efficient Incorporating skimming into reading practice can significantly improve students' ability to quickly analyze and interpret texts.
Skimming is a vital reading technique that helps readers grasp the main ideas of a text quickly without focusing on details It should be introduced at the initial stage of teaching reading to provide students with an overview of the material, ultimately enhancing their understanding of the entire text However, skimming can be challenging for young or beginner learners who may lack confidence and sufficient language knowledge.
Scanning is a valuable reading strategy that involves quickly searching a text to locate specific information relevant to a particular purpose, making it distinct from skimming According to Francois (1981), "when scanning, we only try to locate specific information and often do not even follow the linearity of the passage," instead letting our eyes wander until we find what we need, such as a name or date Cultivating scanning systematically from an early stage can enhance cooperative studying and make it easier to find pertinent details efficiently.
Scanning is a rapid reading technique that helps you quickly locate specific information such as names, dates, places, or statistics It is especially useful for identifying details or understanding the general setting in a short story This method is essential when reading maps, charts, tables, or graphs, enabling researchers to efficiently find relevant data on a particular topic.
Type of reading
Extensive reading is a key fluency activity that enhances general comprehension skills It reinforces language concepts learned in the classroom and offers valuable practice in inferring meaning from contextual clues This approach helps students improve their reading fluency and overall language proficiency.
Extensive reading allows students to develop a general understanding of texts without needing to understand every word, focusing on reading large amounts of material quickly for enjoyment and pleasure This approach encourages reading out of class, helping students read fluently and independently in a foreign language without teacher assistance Moreover, extensive reading increases exposure to the language, facilitating the development of efficient reading skills and providing learners with substantial language input similar to immersion in a native environment.
Extensive reading is essential for improving language skills, as Nuttall (1982) emphasizes that “the best way to enhance one's knowledge of a foreign language is to live among its speakers,” with extensive reading being the next most effective method This practice provides sustained exposure to a substantial body of English, making it a fundamental approach for foreign learners to develop language proficiency.
Broughton (1980: 111) identifies three effective methods to encourage extensive reading among students: providing class sets of books, implementing a class library system, and utilizing the school library These approaches promote reading engagement and foster a reading-friendly environment within the school setting Incorporating these strategies can significantly enhance students' reading habits and support language development.
University students benefit greatly from active reading, which enhances their ability to read independently outside the classroom and apply their language skills effectively This type of reading not only boosts language proficiency but also fosters enjoyment and interest, making it a highly engaging activity Consequently, intensive reading is highly motivating for students, encouraging deeper comprehension and active learning.
The remaining two kinds of reading activity, content study reading and linguistic study reading are also often grouped together and called intensive reading
Unlike extensive reading, which focuses on reading for fluency without requiring detailed comprehension or teacher assistance, intensive reading emphasizes accuracy and deep understanding of the text It involves closely guided reading sessions where students analyze both what the text means and how its meaning is constructed, highlighting the importance of understanding the process as much as the content The primary goal of intensive reading is to train students in detailed comprehension skills, ensuring they grasp both the surface and underlying aspects of the text.
Intensive reading is fundamentally about ensuring students understand every aspect of a text, enabling them to answer detailed vocabulary and comprehension questions (Lewis, 1985) Its primary focus is on the in-depth comprehension of short texts, aiming to grasp the author's logical arguments, rhetorical patterns, and emotional or social overtones (Broughton, 1980) The goal is for students to develop a full, personal response to the content, fostering a deep understanding beyond mere surface reading Response to the text cannot be purely instructed or learned through repetition, but is enhanced when students understand different perspectives, helping them to see and interpret texts for themselves.
In real-life situations, our reading objectives constantly change, requiring us to adopt different reading strategies to effectively gather information Teachers should remain active and flexible, selecting appropriate reading approaches for each context to help students develop into independent and efficient readers.
SURVEY QUESTIONAIRE
Participants
A total of 30 students, including final-year, second-year, and third-year English majors from Hai Phong Management and Technology University, participated in the study through eight survey questionnaires These students, aged 18 to 23 and from diverse regions across Vietnam, have studied English for over 12 years, from primary school through high school Due to their engagement with many different subjects, they lack sufficient time to focus on advanced English learning Consequently, most students possess only basic English skills, primarily at the elementary and pre-intermediate levels, enabling them to communicate with teachers and classmates during English classes.
Currently, students receive a total of 40.5 English periods per semester, scheduled as three classes per week, each lasting 50 minutes The syllabus focuses on "Effective Reading" at a pre-intermediate level, aiming to enhance students' reading comprehension skills This structured timetable ensures consistent language exposure, promoting steady progress in English proficiency.
After this survey is completed, we will have a better understanding about the cause of difficulties in reading skill experienced by finnal year English majors.
Purpose of the survey questionnaires
This study provides a comprehensive insight into the real challenges of learning English reading skills among university students Conducted at Hai Phong Management of Technology University, the survey aims to collect and analyze data to identify effective strategies for improving English reading proficiency The research focuses on understanding students' reading habits, difficulties, and preferences to develop targeted interventions that enhance their English reading skills.
To make out the attitude of students towards English learning in general and English reading skill in particular
To get more information about the real situation of leaning reading skill in class and out class in English major at Hai Phong Management of Technology University
To get to know students‟ difficulties as well as expectations to find the activities that can attract them into reading English
Finally, thanks to these, I will suggest a way to reading with many activities that can attract students‟ interests and improve their reading skill.
Design of questionaire
This chapter details the research methodology used in this study, including the research purpose, key questions, design, process, population and sample, research instruments, data collection methods, and data analysis techniques The study's primary aim is to explore and understand the specific phenomena under investigation, ensuring a systematic and comprehensive approach to achieving reliable and valid results.
This research aims to assess the current challenges faced by final-year HP majors in developing their reading skills, identify underlying causes, and propose effective solutions Key variables examined include students' academic assessments, their interest levels, attitudes towards reading, speaking difficulties, and motivating factors that influence their engagement Understanding these aspects is essential for improving students' reading proficiency and addressing their overall learning challenges.
This research study aims to identify the frequency of speaking problems among students and assess the importance of speaking skills in their learning process It also seeks to explore the challenges students face and the factors influencing their interest in speaking English Additionally, the study will investigate the key motivators that encourage students when learning to read English The research questions focus on understanding the difficulties encountered in speaking, the significance of speaking skills, and the underlying incentives driving students’ engagement with English reading.
There are 8 following questions raised for the students:
There are 8 following questions raised for the students:
1 Student’s real situations of learning English reading skill ?
2 How long have you been learning English ?
3 Do you like English reading lessons at class ?
4 What do you think about the importance of English reading skill ?
5 What is your problem in reading skill ?
6 Which of the following reasons make you difficult to learn English reading ?
7 What reasons reading activities do you like most ?
8 How much time do you spend on studying reading skill ? c, Research design
This study employs a descriptive quantitative research design to systematically gather data on final-year students' speaking skills This approach aims to provide a clear understanding of their speaking proficiency levels, ensuring accurate and objective measurement The research process involves collecting and analyzing quantitative data to identify key patterns and trends related to students' speaking abilities, contributing valuable insights for enhancing language teaching strategies.
The researcher approached students at HaiPhong Management and Technology University during break time to seek their participation in the study, explaining the research scope to gain their acceptance Most respondents willingly agreed to participate in the research The discussions, lasting approximately 20 to 25 minutes, were conducted on campus, with the researcher taking notes to facilitate data analysis During the questionnaire process, respondents were encouraged to freely express their views on various topics related to the study, ensuring open and honest responses Overall, the conversations flowed smoothly and pleasantly, contributing to effective data collection for the research.
The questionnaires were specially designed to be easily summarized and analyzed, ensuring efficient data collection Comprising 8 questions, the survey targeted 15 students at HP Management and Technology University to gather relevant insights.
To ensure the reliability and validity of the sample data, questionnaires were directly distributed to learners during their class break and collected immediately, allowing them to focus on their recent experiences The researcher explained the purpose and significance of the study, clarifying any uncertainties about the survey questions with both written instructions and oral explanations in Vietnamese to eliminate ambiguity A total of 15 students participated in completing the survey, providing valuable responses for the study.
This section outlines the comprehensive process of gathering information essential for identifying solutions to the stated problems The data collection steps in this study include carefully identifying relevant sources, employing appropriate methods to ensure accuracy, and systematically organizing the data to support effective analysis Proper data collection is critical for deriving valid and reliable results that inform the problem-solving process.
Explaining about the questionnaires to the students The researcher explains the items clearly to avoid misunderstanding
Giving instruction to the students to fill out the questionnaires
Collecting the students’ questionnaires. h, Data analysis
The next step after the researcher collects the data is analyzing the data are some steps in analyzing the data They are presented as follows:
Reading and identifying the questionnaires that had been answered
Classifying the result of the questions
Composing tables to classify students’ problems and strategies used based
Calculating the result taken from the students’ answer based on the tables.
Going to conclusion based on the data analysis
Student’s real situations of learning English reading skill
Most students come from rural areas and have limited opportunities to practice English skills during secondary school They primarily focused on reading and writing to prepare for university entrance and graduation exams, which impacted their overall language proficiency Despite studying English for 5 to over 7 years, many students identify reading as their weakest skill, highlighting the need for improved language practice and exposure.
The 15 copies of the questionnaire delivered to the learners The data are analyzed in this part of the study in the below tables and charts which show the responses for the questions in the questionnaires Besides, the first question the questionnaires bring a result that according to students’ opinion, speaking skill is very difficult
Chart 1: The students' assessment of learning the reading skill
It can be seen obviously in the chart that the reading is a difficult skill to
Very difficult Difficult Not difficult Easy
Learning to read in English can be very challenging for many learners, with 23% stating it is very difficult In contrast, only a small percentage, around 2%, find reading easy Observations suggest that students who find reading easier are often top performers, typically learning English through dedicated centers or with support from their parents.
In short, the survey proved the assumption about the difficulty of reading English and learning it.
How long have you been learning English ?
Chart 2 : How long have you been learning english ?
The survey aims to determine how long students have been studying English, with Chart 2 showing that both urban and rural students begin learning English at an early age Final year students (1997) in their hometown typically start English in middle school or grade 6, while second and third-year students at Haiphong Management and Technology University (HPU) all began studying English in grade 3 of primary school.
16 finnal year (1997) second year (1998) third year (1999)
Students in the city typically begin learning English a year earlier than their counterparts in their hometowns, giving them a significant advantage As shown in the above image, the majority of students have started learning English at an early age, which contributes to their overall language proficiency This early exposure to English is a key factor in explaining the differences between urban and rural students' language skills.
2.2.3 Do you like English reading lessons at class ?
Chart 3 : Do you like English reading lessons at class ?
Most English students at Haiphong Management and Technology University (HPU) recognize the importance of reading, with 48% expressing a preference for reading comprehension Additionally, 26% of students genuinely enjoy English reading in class, highlighting a positive attitude toward reading activities However, 17% of students dislike reading skills, and 9% explicitly stated they do not enjoy learning reading skills in class, indicating some resistance Overall, the data demonstrates that students understand the crucial role of reading in their language learning journey.
LikeReally LikeNot LikeNot really Like
What do you think about the importance of English reading skill ?
To better understand the opinions of final-year students at Hai Phong Management and Technology University, the questionnaire's fourth question was designed to assess their views on the importance of reading skills This question aims to evaluate students’ perceptions of how crucial reading skills are for their academic success and future career development The findings will provide valuable insights into students' attitudes toward reading and highlight the significance of developing strong reading abilities within their education.
Chart 4: The importance of English reading skill
The chart clearly indicates that 83% of students at HPU strongly agree that developing speaking skills is very important for their language learning Conversely, only 4% believe that speaking skills are quite important, highlighting the overall high priority placed on speaking proficiency Additionally, the chart shows that most students recognize the significant role of reading skills in learning English, emphasizing its importance across various life fields.
Developing strong speaking skills is essential for effective communication in daily life and crucial when learning English As language learners progress, honing their speaking abilities becomes increasingly important to express ideas confidently and engage in meaningful conversations Prioritizing speaking practice enhances overall language proficiency and boosts interpersonal communication skills.
ImportanceVery importanceQuite importanceOther
What is your problem in reading skill ?
Reading is essential for students to expand their vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of the world, serving as a foundation for success in spelling and writing However, surveys indicate that many students face significant challenges in developing strong English reading skills, with common issues including limited vocabulary, poor comprehension, and difficulty recognizing sight words, all of which hinder their overall language proficiency.
The above problems shown in the following table :
Unable to get the gist
Cannot do exercises New words
Table 1 : Students’ problems in reading skill.
Most students (40%) find it challenging to understand the main idea of a problem, while 45% struggle to solve it About 35% of learners are not interested in exploring new vocabulary, with only 16% perceiving looking up words as an easy task Moreover, only 19% experience significant difficulty in this area Slow reading is considered normal by 50% of students, whereas 20% find it genuinely difficult, and none express gratitude for slow reading Additionally, engaging in speaking activities significantly boosts students' interest in developing language skills.
According to interview data, 30% of students are indifferent towards completing their homework, indicating a lack of motivation or interest in improving their reading skills Additionally, 5% of students struggle with their homework due to difficulties in understanding or applying reading concepts These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to enhance students' reading comprehension and engagement in their studies.
In summary, understanding student issues in English reading plays an important role in learning and teaching English It will bring students and
Which of the following reasons make you difficult to learn English
When surveying the students ‘‘Which of the following reasons make you difficult to learn English reading ? ’’ Most students have the following reasons :
The reasons that make it difficult for students to read English are shown in the following chart :
Chart 6 : The following reasons make you difficult to learn English reading
The chart shows that the lack of materials is not a big problem Only 9
Approximately 24% of learners feel their reading skills are inadequate, making reading difficult The majority of students (53%) identify poor vocabulary as the primary reason for these reading challenges Additionally, 10% of learners cite other factors contributing to their reading difficulties Strengthening vocabulary skills is essential to improve overall reading comprehension among students.
Many learners believe that poor motivation is a key barrier to improving their English skills In addition to motivation, about 7% of students identify factors such as teaching methods and their background knowledge as influential in their reading ability Overall, most students agree that a common challenge in English speaking is limited vocabulary, which hampers their communication skills.
What reasons reading activities do you like most ?
The questionnaire for students includes a question about their preferred reasons for engaging in reading activities Commonly favored activities in English classes involve various types of exercises, such as reading comprehension, vocabulary building, and interactive reading tasks These activities help enhance students' language skills and make the learning process more engaging and effective Understanding students’ preferences for specific reading exercises can guide educators in designing more motivating and targeted reading programs.
The collected data are shown in the below chart :
Chart 7 : The reasons reading activities do you like most
The chart indicates that a majority of students (52%) enjoy pair reading activities, highlighting their preference for collaborative learning Meanwhile, 45% of students favor individual reading, demonstrating diverse reading preferences Additionally, the data shows that a small percentage of students are uninterested in reading activities, with only 32% expressing dislike for extensive reading Overall, the chart reflects varied student engagement levels with different reading formats.
Pair reading Indidual reading Group reading Speed reading Intensive reading Extensive reading
UninterestedNot likeLikeLike most learn reading skills should also improve So how long have students spent learning reading? The next chart will show this question.
How much time do you spend on studying reading skill ?
Chart 8 : How much time do you spend on studying reading skill ?
The pie chart clearly shows that most students dedicate only around 30 minutes daily to reading study A small portion, 14%, spend an hour or more on reading each day Spending insufficient time on reading significantly impacts students’ reading proficiency and overall learning efficiency.
30 minutes a day an hour a day two hours a day other
SUGGESTIONS TO IMPROVE THE READING SKILL
Extensive reading
3.1.1.How to Improve Reading Comprehension:
Because reading comprehension is a skill that improves like any other, you can improve your understanding with practice and a game plan
Dedicate yourself to engaging in a combination of both "guided" and
Engaging in at least two to three hours of "relaxed" reading practice weekly helps enhance language skills through enjoyable, pressure-free reading Combining focused, guided practice—such as learning new vocabulary and self-testing—with relaxed reading sessions allows for better retention and enjoyment of the language If you already read for pleasure, aim to add at least one more hour of relaxed reading to further boost your fluency and comprehension Consistent, enjoyable reading habits are essential for improving language proficiency over time.
By blending reading-for-studying and reading-for-pleasure, you can enhance your reading skills without turning reading into just a chore Reading is an integral part of daily life, and improving comprehension should not mean sacrificing the enjoyment of reading Combining both approaches allows you to develop better understanding while still enjoying the activity, making reading a more fulfilling experience.
So what are some of the first steps for improving your reading comprehension level?
Step 1: Understand and Reevaluate How You're Currently Reading
Before you can improve your reading comprehension, you must first understand how you're currently reading and what your limitations are
To improve your understanding, select unfamiliar texts such as textbooks, essays, novels, or news reports, and read them as you normally would Pay attention to moments when your focus, energy, or comprehension starts to decline, helping you identify areas where you may need to improve your reading strategies.
If you notice your focus tends to decline after a certain period, gradually build your concentration stamina by increasing your focused reading time incrementally Start by reading for your maximum comfortable period, such as 20 minutes, then take a break before attempting to extend that to 22 minutes As you improve, aim for 25 minutes and then 30 minutes, ensuring you can maintain focus throughout each interval This gradual approach helps improve comprehension and concentration over time without overwhelming your mind.
If your concentration or comprehension begins to decline, it’s important to slow down and adjust your reading pace, as improvement takes time and rushing can lead to frustration Often, reading comprehension issues are related to the complexity or source material rather than the amount of time spent reading Difficulties may stem from understanding key elements like context, character motivations, or dense, symbolic information in texts or textbooks To enhance your reading comprehension, follow effective strategies tailored to address these specific challenges and develop better understanding of complex material.
Reading and comprehension depend on a combination of vocabulary, context, and the interaction of words Understanding each individual component is essential to grasp the overall meaning of the text Mastering vocabulary enables readers to recognize and interpret key terms, while context provides clues that clarify the meaning of unfamiliar words and ideas The interaction of words within sentences and paragraphs helps build coherence, making it possible to understand complex ideas Ultimately, strong reading comprehension requires the ability to analyze and integrate these elements to interpret the text as a whole.
To improve vocabulary comprehension, it’s helpful to use context clues within sentences or passages to infer meanings of unfamiliar words However, always look up definitions of words you don't recognize to deepen understanding Keep a running list of unfamiliar words and create flashcards with their meanings for active learning Dedicate fifteen minutes two to three times a week to review and quiz yourself on these vocabulary flashcards, reinforcing your learning effectively.
To get started, gather blank index cards, which are an affordable and versatile option available in fun colors Use a system to keep them organized, such as plastic baggies, rubber bands, or a dedicated organizer, to ensure easy access and efficient study sessions.
For effective vocabulary building, consider using easy-flip flashcards with binder clips for added convenience While creating your own flashcards is highly recommended for personalized learning, pre-made options are also available The top choice is Barron's 1100 Words You Need to Know, a comprehensive series of exercises designed to help you master essential words and idioms efficiently.
To effectively retain your vocabulary knowledge, combine regular memorization techniques such as studying flashcards with active use of new words in both spoken and written communication Guided vocabulary practice helps you quickly access and understand new words while ensuring long-term retention This integrated approach enhances your language skills and enriches your vocabulary.
The best way to improve your reading comprehension level is through practice And the best way to practice is to have fun with it!
Make reading an enjoyable activity rather than a constant chore to motivate engagement and incorporate it into your daily life Practicing and truly engaging with your reading material will lead to natural improvement over time Start with texts slightly below your age and grade level, especially if reading feels frustrating or difficult, to reduce pressure and help you relax and enjoy the story We recommend fun, easy reads to help you get started and build confidence in your reading skills.
Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roksani Chokshi
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
The Westing Game by Ellen Rankin
From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs Basil E Frankweiler by E.L Konigsburg
The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson
I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K Rowling
Once you become more comfortable with reading and practicing your comprehension strategies, you should read at your preferred reading or age level Even if you encounter difficulties understanding some or most of the text initially, enjoying the process and giving your best effort will help boost your reading comprehension over time.
Five reading comprehension
Enhancing your vocabulary and dedicating more time to reading can significantly boost your overall reading comprehension To better understand a specific piece of text, focus on active reading strategies, such as highlighting key points and analyzing context clues Engaging with the material thoughtfully will improve your ability to grasp complex ideas and details Incorporating these techniques into your reading routine helps you comprehend challenging texts more effectively and efficiently.
To enhance your reading comprehension and overall understanding, follow these key steps: actively engage with the text by highlighting important sentences that convey core ideas, take brief notes to summarize main points, and pause periodically to reflect on what's been read This approach improves focus, retention, and critical thinking, making your reading sessions more effective and enjoyable.
3.2.1: Stop When You Get Confused and Try to Summarize What You Just Read
To enhance your reading comprehension, pause whenever your focus wanes or confusion arises Stop immediately and, without re-reading, summarize aloud or mentally what you've understood up to that point This active review strengthens your grasp of the material and improves retention, making your reading sessions more effective.
Skimming the text and comparing your summary to the original helps ensure you’ve captured key points effectively Rephrasing the material into your own words enhances focus and understanding of the main ideas This process improves comprehension and retention, making it easier to identify the most important information Regularly reviewing and summarizing content is a valuable strategy for clearer communication and better mastery of the material.
To improve your understanding, pause and re-read sections that seem confusing, and regularly summarize the material in your own words This active engagement helps re-contextualize information, making it easier to grasp and remember Repeating the process reinforces learning and enhances comprehension, ultimately leading to better retention of the material.
3.2.2: If You're Struggling, Try Reading Aloud
Mental blocks can interrupt reading progress, often caused by complex or awkward sentences, fatigue, intimidating vocabulary, or boredom, which hinder effective comprehension.
Reading these problematic passages aloud can often help circumvent that block and help you to form a visual of what the text is trying to convey
3.2.3: Re-read (or Skim) Previous Sections of the Text
Reading is a personal activity that occurs entirely in your mind, so there's no need to follow traditional methods if they don't suit you Feel free to read or re-read a text out of order to enhance your understanding and learning Adapting your reading approach can make the most sense for your individual style and improve overall comprehension.
Reviewing previous sections of your text can be highly beneficial for reinforcing important information Re-reading key passages helps you recall essential details like context, definitions, and character references, ensuring clarity and continuity in your content This practice enhances comprehension, prevents overlooked details, and improves overall writing quality for your audience.
Reviewing previous sentences, sections, or chapters offers valuable context clues that enhance understanding Re-reading these parts refreshes your memory, enabling you to better interpret subsequent sections of the text for a clearer, more comprehensive comprehension.
3.2.4: Skim or Read Upcoming Sections of the Text
Take control of your reading process by understanding that you don't need to follow a strict linear approach; instead, feel free to dissect the text and reorganize it in a way that best enhances your comprehension This flexible method allows for deeper engagement and better understanding of complex materials Approaching texts with this adaptable strategy can improve your learning experience and retention.
Understanding current confusion in a work can be clarified later in the text, so knowing that explanations are upcoming allows readers to anticipate helpful insights Reading ahead or being aware of forthcoming explanations can enhance comprehension and make the information more accessible This approach ensures that complex or unclear sections are easier to understand once their explanations are provided later in the article.
Feel free to skip forward or backward, re-read, or read ahead as needed to understand the content; everyone processes information differently, and not all readers interpret texts in a linear fashion.
3.2.5: Discuss the Text With a Friend (Even an Imaginary Friend)
Discussing your understanding of a text can clarify any confusion and deepen your comprehension Explaining the material to a friend who hasn't read it helps identify areas where your grasp may be unclear Teaching or discussing the content reinforces your knowledge and reveals insights you might have overlooked Engaging in this practice improves overall reading comprehension and retention, making it a valuable strategy for students and learners alike.
Engaging in self-explanation, even alone, can significantly improve understanding of difficult passages Software engineers use "rubber duck debugging," where they explain coding problems aloud to a rubber duck, to clarify their thinking and resolve issues This technique encourages verbalizing complex concepts, which helps reveal gaps in understanding and fosters problem-solving If a challenging text leaves you confused, talking through it with a friend, pet, or rubber duck can make comprehension much easier You'll be amazed at how much clearer a passage becomes when you articulate your thoughts aloud.
Exercises
You are to choose the one best answer A, B, C or D to each questions
Dancer Martha Graham trained her body to move in innovative ways, reflecting the nervous, sharp, and zigzag nature of modern life She aimed to capture moments that seem to stop in midair, embodying the unpredictable rhythm of contemporary existence Graham emphasized that her goal was to express raw emotions that traditional dance forms couldn't convey, despite never intending to be a rebel Her unique approach revolutionized dance by allowing genuine emotional expression through groundbreaking movement styles.
This was in 1925 All forms of art were undergoing a revolution The theories of psychology were being used to extend the boundaries of poetry, music, and painting
Martha Graham's debut dance concert in her new idiom occurred on April
On October 18, 1926, dance connoisseurs gathered at the Forty-eighth Street Theater in New York to witness Martha Graham's groundbreaking debut in modern dance Audiences were captivated by her innovative choreography, including notable sequences like "Three Gobi Maidens" and "A Return," which showcased her pioneering approach to expressive movement and marked the beginning of her influential career in contemporary dance.
These critics agreed that something entirely new a departure from all previous forms, had been witnessed
In her early thirties, she founded the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance, which became a vital hub for dance innovation Her classes served as a laboratory for developing her stage works, creating a dynamic environment for experimentation These stage works not only showcased her artistic vision but also attracted new students to her school, establishing a self-sustaining cycle of growth and creativity This innovative approach positioned her as the key figure driving the evolution of contemporary dance.
Martha Graham and the school she founded are virtually synonymous with modern dance, revolutionizing the art form She developed a distinctive dance technique, choreographed groundbreaking performances, and taught generations of dancers Her disciples have carried her legacy forward, shaping the modern dance landscape worldwide.
1 What does the passage mainly discuss
(A) Martha Graham' S development of modern dance
(B) The revolution of art forms in the i920' s
(D) The Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance
2 It can be inferred from the passage that in the beginning of her career, Martha Graham’s mode of dance was
(D) accepted only in New York
3 It can be inferred from the passage that Martha Graham's style of dance differed from traditional dance in the
4 In lines 16, the author uses the phrase "a sort of self-winding process" to illustrate
(A) the new steps Graham developed for dance
(B) the relationship between Graham's performances and her school
(C) the discipline demanded in Graham's school
(D) the physical endurance of Graham' 3 dancers
5 According to the passage, what is the present status of Martha Graham's work?
(A) It is historically interesting, but is no longer popular
(B) It has evolved into something completely different
(C) It is carried on by her students
Thank you for your cooperation!
Summary
This research aims to help final-year English majors at Haiphong Management and Technology University understand the key causes of their reading difficulties The study identifies both individual and contextual factors contributing to these challenges, such as limited study time, lack of vocabulary development, and minimal habitual reading in English, despite easy access to foreign media Additionally, students often underutilize available resources meant for learning and lack effective reading strategies On the contextual side, complex teaching methods and unengaging reading materials hinder comprehension, leading to student frustration and rebellious attitudes Based on these findings, the researcher proposes practical solutions to improve reading skills among these students, aiming to address the root causes of their difficulties and enhance their learning experience.
Limitations
This research acknowledges certain limitations, primarily due to time constraints and limited expertise As a result, the study focuses solely on specific skills, excluding speaking, listening, and writing Additionally, the participant pool was restricted, lacking representation from sophomores, juniors, or seniors, which may affect the comprehensiveness of the findings.
HMTU This study only focused on the causes of difficulties in reading skill experienced by finnal year English majors at HMTU.