Teaching reading comprehension to second language learners a case of Rashadiyya Islamic JHS

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to enhance reading comprehension skills in students of Rashadiyya Islamic Junior High School. The objectives of the study are; to identify challenges students encounter in reading comprehension, adopt effective comprehension strategies to overcome challenges students encounter in reading comprehension and identify effects of challenges on the performance of students. The study adopted the qualitative research approach with an interview guide and observation technique. The sample is made up of thirty-six (36) students drawn from one hundred and forty-seven students. The findings of the study showed that the phonic technique, which is commonly used for teaching reading at all levels, is the greatest strategy for teaching students to enhance their reading comprehension. It further showed that students face various levels of difficulties which include mispronunciation and word substitution; skipping and omitting words while reading, a limited grasp of English alphabet and sounds. The study concludes that reading difficulties faced by Basic 8 students of Rashadiyya Islamic Junior High School could be significant barriers to the development of effective reading comprehension skills among the students. The study recommends that English Language teachers of Rashadiyya Islamic Junior High School should facilitate students learning using phonic method of teaching reading.