Trang 3 DECLARATION I certify my authorship of the study report entitled “A study on difficulties in learning reading skills of the second-year English major students at Hung Yen Univers
INTRODUCTION
Rationale of the study
English, as the official language of over 55 countries, plays a crucial role in international trade and cooperation, serving as a gateway to scientific and technological advancements and enabling global connectivity.
In Vietnam, the significance of learning English has led to its widespread use in both education and daily life Mastering English is crucial, with four key skills: speaking, listening, reading, and writing Among these, reading is particularly vital At UTEHY and across Vietnam, the reading component in English language education has garnered considerable attention from both teachers and students.
Reading is considered the most crucial skill in learning a second language, particularly English, as noted by Carrel (1981) However, students at UTEHY frequently struggle with reading English, despite the dedication of their teachers, leading to ineffective reading habits.
Sophomore English faculty at UTEHY often struggle to comprehend English passages despite having studied the language for several years This difficulty arises from gaps in vocabulary, grammar, reading skills, and foundational knowledge Additionally, the teaching methods and techniques employed do not align with international education standards, hindering effective learning.
This study, titled "A Study on Difficulties in Learning Reading Skills of Second-Year English Major Students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education," aims to identify the factors impacting reading skills and explore effective strategies for improvement among students.
Aims of the study
This study aims to explore the challenges faced by second-year students in the English program at the Faculty of Foreign Languages, UTEHY, regarding their reading skills Additionally, it seeks to provide effective solutions to enhance English reading comprehension among these students.
To achieve these goals, research will focus on the following goals:
- To investigate the attitudes of the second-year English major students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education towards learning reading skills
- To find out the difficulties in learning English reading skills of the second-year English major students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education towards learning reading skills
- To give some solutions to improve English reading skills for the second-year English major students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education towards learning reading skills.
Research questions
The study is carried out to find out the answers for the questions:
1 What are the attitudes of the second-year English major students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education towards learning reading skills?
2 What are the difficulties in learning English reading skills of the second-year English major students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education towards learning reading skills?
3 What are some suggestions to improve English reading skills for the second-year English major students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education towards learning reading skills?
The scope of the study
This study examines the challenges faced by second-year students in the Faculty of Foreign Languages at UTEHY in developing reading skills Due to time constraints and limited resources, the research does not encompass the entire spectrum of issues related to reading proficiency.
Methods of the study
The research utilizes survey questionnaires specifically designed for second-year English major students at UTEHY, consisting of two main parts aimed at addressing key research questions The first part identifies factors influencing English reading skills, while the second part proposes solutions to enhance these skills Participants will indicate their level of agreement with various statements, ranging from strongly agree to disagree The study employs both quantitative and qualitative methods, and the findings will be presented through tables and charts to effectively communicate the collected data.
Design of the study
The organization of this research includes four main chapters and is arranged as follow:
Chapter 1 is Introduction indicates the rationale of the study, aims of the study, research questions of the study, scope of the study, methods of the study, design of the study
Chapter 2 is Literature Review, which consists of a previous study and theoretical reviews such as the definition of reading, the definition of reading comprehension, the elements affecting learning English reading skills, and some solutions to improve teaching and learning English reading skills
Chapter 3 is The Study that includes an overview of the situation, the research methodology, data collection from the survey questionnaires and interviews, data analysis and discussion, findings, and recommendations
Chapter 4 is the Conclusion which summary of the study as well as the limitations of the study and suggestions for further study.
LITTERATURE REVIEW
Definition of Reading
Reading is a vital skill that enables students to engage with diverse ideas, critically compare and contrast them, and evaluate various arguments and beliefs It fosters the ability to make inferences, predictions, and interpretations while exploring the effects and consequences of different perspectives Experts define reading as a complex mental process involving the absorption of information from written texts According to the Longman Applied Linguistics Dictionary, reading encompasses the act of interpreting and understanding written language messages.
1 "Conscious of a written text to understand its content This can be done in silence (reading silently) Understanding that result is called reading comprehension
2 Say aloud a written text (oral reading) This can be done with or without understanding the content ”
Reading, as defined by the Collins English Learner Dictionary, involves the act of seeing and comprehending a message This process necessitates the use of vision to interpret individual words within sentences, ultimately leading to an understanding of the entire text Each sentence contributes to the overall meaning, highlighting the interconnectedness of language.
Reading is a mechanical process where the eyes receive information, and the brain interprets its significance (Hammer, 1989) This definition emphasizes the dual roles of the eyes and brain, along with the reader's control over the reading speed, as the pace of reading is determined by the individual reader's preferences.
Reading comprehensive
Reading is essential for teaching and learning a foreign language, as it enables learners to efficiently extract necessary information from texts The reading process involves three key elements: the text itself, the reader's background knowledge, and the contextual factors that influence text interpretation.
Swan (1975:1) defines a proficient student in comprehension as one who can read a text accurately and efficiently, maximizing the information gained while minimizing the effort required to understand it.
Grellet (1981:3) considers "reading comprehension or understanding a written text means extracting the required information from it as effectively as possible."
Reading comprehension is fundamentally an interaction between the author and the reader, as highlighted by Richard and Thomas (1987:9) While perspectives on this concept may vary, they converge on the idea that reading comprehension involves the reader's ability to decode written text and grasp the underlying meanings conveyed through various elements of the material.
According to Manner Reading, reading can be categorized into two types: reading aloud and silent reading Reading aloud involves not only looking at the text but also comprehending it (Doff, 1988:70) While this method serves as an effective way to communicate essential information to others, it remains an unpopular practice outside of classroom settings.
Reading aloud benefits learners by connecting sounds with letter and word spelling, while also enabling teachers to assess pronunciation However, opinions on its effectiveness vary, as highlighted by Nuttall's contrasting views.
(1982) says reading aloud is an aid for beginners to improve their pronunciation, Greenwood
(1985) criticizes the overemphasis of the purpose of "teaching pronunciation " through reading aloud
Silent reading is the predominant method used in both everyday life and educational settings, as it is generally faster and more efficient than reading aloud (Lewis, 1985:110) This personal skill enhances reading comprehension, allowing learners to skip unnecessary words, read at their own pace, and revisit sentences for clarity Additionally, silent reading enables students to grasp main ideas quickly while also understanding details thoroughly Furthermore, it allows teachers to easily assess students' comprehension and provide tailored reading materials and exercises that match their abilities.
According to purpose, reading is categorized into four types: skimming, scanning, extensive, and intensive reading
Skim-read and scan-read are necessary reading techniques for general sense or the gist of a reading text
Skimming, as defined by Nuttal (1982:36), involves quickly glancing through a text to assess its relevance to one's research or to stay generally informed about less critical topics This technique allows readers to efficiently determine the significance of a paper without delving into detailed analysis.
According to Grellet (1981), skimming involves quickly reviewing reading material to grasp the main points or the author's intent, while scanning focuses on locating specific information without adhering to the text's structure Both techniques are essential for efficient reading, and they work best when combined After skimming and scanning, students should engage in critical reading, as emphasized by Francis Bacon (1992), who noted that some books are meant to be tasted, others swallowed, and a select few should be thoroughly chewed and digested.
Extensive and intensive reading serve distinct purposes in the learning process Extensive reading occurs outside the classroom and emphasizes fluency and enjoyment, while intensive reading, or study reading, involves close teacher guidance and demands careful attention to the text According to Nuttall (1989), students must achieve a deep and detailed understanding of the text, focusing not only on its meaning but also on how that meaning is constructed.
Factors affecting the English reading skills
Vocabulary plays a crucial role in effective communication and comprehension of written texts According to the Oxford Dictionary, vocabulary refers to the collection of words used within a specific language It encompasses the words that individuals or groups are familiar with and frequently utilize A strong vocabulary enables readers to grasp the meanings of words and texts, particularly when engaging with English for specific purposes.
Grammar is commonly defined by various linguists, but for this study, I align with Ur's definition (1990, p.4), which describes grammar as "the way a language manipulates and combines words (or bits of words) to create longer units of meaning."
Grammar is the system of rules that dictates how meaning units are constructed in any language A learner of grammar is someone who can master and apply these rules for effective self-expression, making grammar a fundamental aspect of linguistic form In the context of language education, grammar holds significant importance.
Mastering a language requires an understanding of grammatical rules, whether implicit or explicit (Ur, 1990) Learners must grasp various structures to effectively combine words and communicate While grammar is essential for achieving fluency, it should be viewed as a tool for language acquisition rather than the ultimate goal Individual differences among learners can lead to varying levels of ease or difficulty in mastering the language; some may find it straightforward, while others may struggle Ultimately, acquiring grammatical knowledge is crucial for language learners to achieve proficiency.
Understanding grammar is essential, and writing correctly is preferable to writing incorrectly However, it's important to recognize that grammar is essentially the structure of common speech Ultimately, usage serves as the definitive test of language.
(William Somerset Maugham, The Summing Up, 1938)
Teachers utilize a diverse range of devices that change annually, between schools, and among individual educators Commonly used tools include chalk and whiteboards, dry-erase markers, computers, projectors, reading materials, DVD players, CDs, Smartboards, notebooks, books, rulers, pens, scientific instruments, and English textbooks aimed at enhancing reading strategies.
The classroom atmosphere significantly impacts student learning, just as much as the content and assignment design A supportive environment where students feel included, valued, and respected is essential Professors should aim to foster such an atmosphere, and clearly outlining expectations in the syllabus emphasizes its importance, encouraging students to contribute to a positive classroom environment.
Solutions
Depending on the data analysis and the key findings above, some recommendations for improving vocabulary and grammar usage are as follows:
Grammar is essential in the language learning journey, providing learners with foundational knowledge Engaging in grammar exercises helps students internalize the rules and apply them effectively It is crucial for teachers to assign more grammar practice, particularly for sophomore students, to enhance their understanding and proficiency in grammar usage.
Reading a diverse range of books and materials enhances students' background knowledge and vocabulary, leading to improved language skills It also serves as an effective method for mastering grammar, as students learn to recognize the functions of grammar within context and understand sentence and word structures Over time, this practice enables students to grasp the rules and patterns of the language, fostering proficiency Additionally, extensive reading equips students with a wealth of knowledge, allowing them to tackle challenging topics and specialized English for specific purposes (ESP) with confidence.
Try to communicate in English
Speaking is a crucial language skill that requires active engagement in both written and oral communication Interacting with native speakers is particularly beneficial, as it exposes students to diverse vocabulary and sentence structures This interaction allows students to identify and learn from their mistakes, which is a natural part of language acquisition Embracing errors as learning opportunities is essential, and seeking feedback from native speakers, teachers, and peers can further enhance their learning experience.
Apply information technology in learning English reading skills
Information technology has many applications to be used in teaching and learning English
Students can explore numerous websites to enhance their learning experience across various subjects such as culture, economics, politics, sports, and tourism By utilizing online resources, they can improve their reading skills while expanding their vocabulary and grammar in topics that interest them.
Summary
This chapter has presented relevant documents to help form a theoretical conceptual framework for the graduation paper It talked about different aspects related to reading and vocabulary.
THE STUDY
Overview of the situation in the current situation of teaching and learning reading skill
Second-year English major students are currently studying "Get Ready for IELTS Reading," a foundational module by Collins designed to enhance their reading skills and comprehension This course focuses on key reading strategies, including identifying main ideas, detailed information, and advanced speculation, building upon skills acquired in the previous semester Additionally, the module incorporates pre- and post-reading activities that allow students to practice speaking, writing, and listening skills Each unit covers diverse topics, enabling varied practice opportunities.
Unit 4: Science and technology at home
By the end of this module, students can:
Students can enhance their understanding of the culture of English-speaking countries through reading exercises and supplementary activities at home Additionally, these practices help expand their vocabulary and knowledge on essential daily topics such as family, personal identity, shopping, housing, education, and employment.
Students can engage in interactive strategic reading over extended periods to enhance their reading speed Additionally, they can utilize the information from the article to fill out maps or tables By employing structured logic to complete sentences and pairing two halves effectively, students can better understand the author's perspective and intent.
Students have a self-conscious, positive and proactive attitude in their learning process, practice self-study, and group study methods.
The research methodology
To collect the data for studying the author used qualitative and quantitative methods including survey questionnaires from students
Survey questionnaires are a highly effective learning method, prompting the researcher to utilize them as a primary tool for data collection in this study They facilitate the gathering of information from participants, allowing for straightforward summarization and reporting of the data, which saves the researcher valuable time.
The study involved 60 second-year English major students from the Faculty of Foreign Languages (FFL) at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education (UTEHY), specifically from the K17 cohort The research aimed to investigate the challenges these students face in developing their reading skills.
Due to time constraints for the graduation paper, the study focused on second-year English majors at UTEHY, with data collected from 60 students aged 18 to 20 Most participants have studied English for at least eight years in secondary and high schools, representing a diverse group of both male and female students.
Data analysis and discussion
3.3.1 Students' attitudes about learning reading skills
Chart 1: Students' attitudes towards reading skills
A recent survey reveals that 45% of students perceive reading as a difficult skill, with 24% labeling it as "Extremely difficult" and 23% as "Very difficult." In contrast, only 8% believe that reading skills are not too difficult, and no respondents indicated that they find reading easy Overall, the data suggests that the majority of students struggle with reading proficiency.
Chart 2: Interest of Reading skills
Extremely difficult Very difficult Difficult Not quite difficult Not difficult
Extremely interesting Very interesting Interesting Not quite interesting Not interesting
Chart 2 reveals diverse student opinions regarding their feelings toward learning reading skills Notably, a significant 63% of students found the reading skill "Not quite interesting," while only 15% described it as "Interesting." Furthermore, a mere 10% considered it "Very interesting," and 12% rated it as "Extremely interesting." Remarkably, no students selected "Not interesting." In summary, the majority of students perceive English reading skills as lacking interest.
Chart 3: Importance of reading skills
A survey revealed that a significant majority of students recognize the importance of reading in learning English, with 46% rating it as "Very important," and 25% and 26% considering it "Extremely Important" and "Important," respectively Only 3% of students view reading as not very important, while no respondents deemed it unimportant This indicates that most students believe reading skills significantly impact their English learning experience.
Extremely important Very important Important Not quite important Not important
Chart 4: Necessarity of reading skills
When being asked to evaluate the necessary of English reading skills, most students agree that
Reading is very necessary with 45% On the other hand, 25% said that it is extremely necessary
A significant 27% of students believe that reading is essential, while only a small fraction, 2%, view it as not quite necessary, and just 1% deem it "not necessary." This data, along with the accompanying charts, highlights that students recognize reading as a crucial skill, even though they often find it challenging and uninteresting.
3.3.2 The difficulties in learning English reading skills
Extremely necessary Very necessary Necessary Not quite necessary Not necessary
Chart 5: Difficulties in pre-reading stage
According to data from a chart analyzing factors affecting students' reading skills at the pre-reading stage, 52% of students identified a lack of background knowledge on the reading topic as a significant barrier to their learning Additionally, 44% strongly agreed and 48% agreed that reading without a clear purpose greatly impacts their comprehension Furthermore, insufficient basic English reading skills—such as prediction, skimming, scanning, guessing new words, and making inferences—are also critical factors hindering their reading development.
A: Lack of background knowledge to the topic of reading
B: A shortage of guiding of the teacher
C: Reading a text without knowing the purpose
D: There are no interesting activities before reading
E: Not enough some basic English reading skills such as prediction, skimming, scanning, guessing new words or headings from a text, inference
A: Usually do not understand new vocabulary
B: Never make a list of new vocabulary
E: Students often use bilingual (English-Vietnamese) dictionary
According to Chart 6, a significant 83% of students strongly agree that they often struggle to understand new words, while 86% admit they do not keep a list of new vocabulary encountered during reading This issue is less pronounced in column C, where only 33% strongly agree and 24% agree with the statement In contrast, grammar poses less of a challenge, with only 24% of students agreeing with concerns in column D Notably, 85% of students strongly agree that they frequently rely on dictionaries to enhance their reading skills in English Overall, the analysis highlights that students primarily face challenges related to limited vocabulary and a reliance on dictionaries.
Chart 7 Difficulties in post-reading
A recent study revealed that 63% of students find it challenging to discuss the topics they have read, while 37% disagree with this sentiment Additionally, 72% of students reported difficulties in writing about the material, with only 28% expressing the opposite view This data indicates that many students struggle with comprehending English texts effectively.
Hard to talk about topic they have read Hard to write about topic they have read
Chart 8: Difficulties in using reading techniques
According to the data presented in Chart 8, a significant number of students face challenges in reading skills, with 55% indicating they agree with difficulties in Skimming Furthermore, only 22% reported having no issues with Scanning skills Notably, 73% of students expressed a desire to enhance their Intensive reading abilities Lastly, regarding Extensive skills, 25% strongly agreed and 50% agreed that they encounter difficulties.
3.3.3 Some suggestions to improve English reading skills
Chart 9 Suggestions to improve students’ learning reading skills related to students
A: Improve vocabulary by pictures, mind maps, expand new words in many different fields B: Study on grammar websites such as Grammar Bytes, Daily Grammar, Oxford English Grammar Course
C: Choose a variety of reading topics
D: Focus on keywords, important phrases, main ideas
The graph illustrates effective strategies for enhancing English reading skills, with a notable emphasis on improving vocabulary through visual aids like pictures and mind maps, which received a 100% approval rating Students identified the need to address challenges posed by unfamiliar words by first focusing on vocabulary enhancement Additionally, 75% of students recommended utilizing grammar websites, while 85% advocated for exploring diverse reading topics The importance of concentrating on keywords, significant phrases, and main ideas was also highlighted Consequently, strategies that prioritize vocabulary improvement through visual methods, along with a focus on key concepts, are deemed essential for advancing students' reading skills.
Chart 10 Solutions to improve students’ learning reading skills related to teachers
The graph highlights effective strategies for enhancing students' reading skills, as identified by the students themselves A significant 50% of students believe that creating engaging situations, incorporating group activities, and using games are the most effective methods to improve their listening abilities Other suggested solutions include skill exchanges, participating in training courses, regular lab use, and fostering a supportive environment Consequently, students express the desire for teachers to implement relevant scenarios, encourage collaborative activities, and utilize diverse exercises in reading classes to boost their learning experience.
Findings of the study
3.4.1 Attitudes of students about learning English reading skills
Overall, from the collected data it is clear that the attitudes of students and teachers towards learning to listen are especially difficult for students Most students recognize the
A: Exchange and learn skills with other colleagues, increase classroom observation, take part in training courses, pedagogical training
B: Create situations related to the topic of study, group activities, playing games to warm up, choose a variety of exercises
C: Use the lab regularly to ensure each student will have a separate computer
D: Ensure the health status as well as a spirit before starting the lesson, regularly connect with students, help to solve problems when they have difficulties friendly and enthusiastically importance of reading skills in learning a foreign language from their second years Even so, students still feel that reading is not an interesting skill
3.4.2 The difficulties perceived by students
A recent study highlights students' challenges in learning to read English, revealing that a lack of background knowledge and limited vocabulary significantly impact their reading abilities Many students find themselves relying heavily on dictionaries to comprehend texts.
In addition, reading without purpose, not enough some basic English reading skills such as prediction, skimming, scanning, guessing new words or headings from a text, inference are common problems
Many students reported challenges in discussing or rewriting the content of a document after reading it, indicating that their comprehension of English texts may not be strong.
Besides, the use of reading techniques of many students is missing and weak Most students acknowledge that they have problems using Skimming, Scanning, Intensive, and Extensive
In conclusion, the challenges faced by students in learning are significant and multifaceted, impacting both teachers and learners Key factors contributing to these difficulties include insufficient background knowledge on the subject matter, a limited vocabulary, reliance on dictionaries, and inadequate foundational reading skills.
3.4.3 Some suggestions for improving learning English reading skill
From analyzing the difficulties of learning reading skills, I have gathered some suggestions from students to overcome the following possible difficulties as follow:
To enhance their understanding of complex texts, students should broaden their reading materials and topics, as a foundational knowledge of the subject matter is essential for comprehension This domain-specific knowledge is crucial for constructing meaningful mental models of the content Informational texts often contain a higher density of vocabulary and concepts that rely on students' background knowledge, and the demands for this knowledge increase as they advance through their education As students encounter more challenging material, they must engage in reading, discussion, and writing about increasingly difficult concepts while making intertextual connections across various subjects They are expected to provide textual evidence, demonstrate a deep understanding of these concepts, and creatively apply their knowledge in new contexts.
In the realm of reading literature, much emphasis has been placed on skills such as decoding, vocabulary development, strategy instruction, and metacognition However, it is evident that insufficient instructional time has been dedicated to teaching background knowledge, which is crucial for text comprehension To enhance students' understanding of texts, it is essential to prioritize the deliberate instruction of background knowledge This can be achieved by encouraging students to engage with diverse materials, including newspapers, English literature, and films.
To effectively expand vocabulary, students should cultivate the habit of learning new words from various sources, including pictures, mind maps, music, and movies, in addition to classroom instruction Enhancing written vocabulary is one of the simplest ways to improve reading skills, as the English language offers an extensive array of words to discover A robust vocabulary enriches all forms of written expression, from fiction and journalism to essays and poetry Therefore, investing time in vocabulary development is simultaneously an investment in reading proficiency Implementing specific strategies for acquiring new words can help reduce reliance on dictionaries over time.
Understanding basic English reading skills is crucial for students, as it significantly impacts their ability to efficiently process information from lengthy texts, which can hinder performance on English language tests To enhance efficiency in this area, students should focus on developing speed reading techniques, particularly through mastering skimming and scanning skills Regular practice of these skills, alongside effective note-taking and information filtering, will improve reading comprehension Additionally, prioritizing relevant information and minimizing missed points by taking thorough notes can greatly benefit students in their reading endeavors.
In conclusion, the analysis of challenges faced by students led to the development of effective solutions aimed at enhancing their reading skills Through a survey reflecting student preferences, tailored strategies were identified to address each specific difficulty.
Recommendations
Based on the findings, survey questionnaires, the researcher proposes some suggestion for teachers, students for the difficulties in studying reading skill
Learning vocabulary by topic enhances students' engagement and fosters a systematic approach to knowledge acquisition, ultimately improving vocabulary applicability Each student should maintain a dedicated vocabulary notebook, categorizing words into specific themes such as everyday activities and advanced subjects like technology This method not only allows for flexible use of phrases within the same topic but also streamlines the process of searching and organizing vocabulary, saving valuable time Additionally, dedicating more time to reading further reinforces vocabulary retention and understanding.
Reading a diverse range of books and documents significantly enhances students' background knowledge and offers numerous benefits, as it improves vocabulary and reading skills Additionally, engaging with various texts equips students with the knowledge needed to tackle challenging subjects, including English for Specific Purposes (ESP) These elements are crucial for effectively approaching complex material.
Reading classic novels is essential for students aiming to expand their vocabulary, as these literary works provide a rich variety of words that contemporary materials, like celebrity gossip magazines, often lack Although classic literature may require more time to comprehend, it effectively demonstrates the practical use of language in conversation and description, making it a valuable resource for vocabulary development.
Audiobooks are a valuable resource for students, readily available from various online platforms and local libraries They enhance language skills by providing accurate pronunciation and word placement, even if students don’t grasp every word.
Using images to associate with specific words is an effective technique in teaching a second language When students connect a visual representation to a word, they are more likely to recall and use it in conversation For longer words, breaking them into parts and attaching quirky cartoons to each segment can enhance memorization The key is to ensure that the images are unique and memorable, making the learning experience both fun and effective.
3.5.1.2 Recommendations to improve reading skills
Skimming is an essential reading skill that helps you grasp the general idea and main focus of an essay or paragraph By quickly reviewing the title, topic sentences, concluding sentences, and keywords, you can efficiently identify key points and the overall conclusion without reading every word This technique allows you to discern the author's attitude toward the topic and enhances your understanding of the text.
Skimming is a valuable skill that enables us to quickly locate information and assess the quality of written content while managing our time effectively By providing a general overview of the material, skimming allows us to identify which sections warrant a closer read for more detailed insights Additionally, it aids in scanning for specific information, ensuring we find the correct answers within the context of the essay.
Scanning is a distinct skill from speed reading, focusing on quickly locating specific information, details, or keywords within a text Unlike skimming, which aims to grasp the main idea, scanning is dedicated to finding particular small details When engaging in scanning tasks, it's essential to pay close attention to word usage.
Scanning texts can significantly reduce the time spent on reading by allowing researchers to quickly identify relevant sections and specific data This skill is essential for efficiently locating important information and figures within references.
Improving your skimming and scanning skills can significantly enhance your IELTS Reading score, as the reading section is a crucial component of the IELTS test.
In this part, you will find a lot of questions demanding your skimming and scanning in IELTS skills, such as:
To effectively answer short questions, first grasp the question's intent Next, skim the text to capture the main idea, followed by scanning for precise answers Finally, paraphrase the findings succinctly, limiting your response to three words.
Completion questions, which may involve sentence completion, summary completion, or filling in diagrams, necessitate a solid grasp of the main ideas presented in the essay Understanding the overall concept allows you to effectively search for the appropriate answers to complete the task Additionally, it may be necessary to paraphrase certain answers to align with the context of the questions.
- Yes/No/Not Given or True/False/Not Given: You scan through the paragraphs to find the specific information asked in the questions, etc
Intensive reading involves engaging with the text with complete concentration and focus, rather than simply reading multiple books or numerous articles in a day Even when analyzing a single-line quote, the goal is to fully grasp the meaning and significance of the words.
Intensive reading is essential for gaining a deeper understanding of information, especially when analyzing work-related reports Unlike skimming, this approach allows you to assess the purpose and evaluate the results of complex texts, ultimately enhancing your reading comprehension, vocabulary, and language skills To develop the habit of intensive reading, consider implementing specific strategies that focus on thorough engagement with the material.
Taking notes in the margins while reading can enhance your understanding and retention of the material Jot down questions, thoughts, and ideas to engage more deeply with the text, especially in lengthy reports Utilizing sticky notes for your insights allows for easy sharing with the author and helps maintain your focus during reading sessions This practice not only aids in tracking your reflections but also enriches your overall reading experience.
Summary
This chapter explores the factors influencing the reading skills of second-year English major students and presents recommended strategies for enhancement The study concludes by summarizing the key findings and proposed solutions to improve their reading proficiency.
Summary of the study
This study investigates the challenges faced by second-year English majors at UTEHY in developing reading skills, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods through questionnaires It compiles various theories from different authors to define reading skills comprehensively The analysis reveals that while reading is a challenging yet crucial skill, students propose potential solutions to address these difficulties.
Limitation of the study
In the process of concluding the study, despite many efforts, errors and omissions cannot be avoided
First of all, because of the limited time and the duration of the Covid-19 virus, the questionnaire was only done with 60 students
The study's findings are limited due to its focus on a small sample population of second-year English majors at FFL, UTEHY, which restricts the generalizability of the results.
Despite the stated limitations, the researcher hopes that this study will contribute to improving the situation of teaching and learning reading skills at FFL, UTEHY.
Suggestion for further study
This study, while limited in scope, highlights the need for future research to include a broader audience of students and teachers in surveys It emphasizes factors and solutions aimed at enhancing students' reading skills, suggesting that subsequent studies could explore additional aspects related to listening, writing, and speaking skills Despite its constraints, this research contributes valuable insights into reading skill development, benefiting both students and educators Acknowledging the limitations due to time and experience, all feedback is welcomed.
1 Cresswell J (1998) Qualititative Inquiry and research design SAGE Publications
2 Doff, A, (1988) Teaching: A training course for teachers Cambridge: CUP
3 Grelet, F.(1981) Developing reading skill Cambridge: CUP
4 Greenwood, J (1985), The teaching of English as an International Language , Collins:
5 Jack C Richards (1985) Longman Dictionary of Applied Linguistics Longman
6 Lewis, M & Hill, J (1985) Practical techniques for language teaching London:
7 Nuttal, C, (1982) Teaching reading skill in a foreign language London: Heineman
8 Patsy M Lightbown and Nina Spada (2006, p.8), How Languages are Learned, Oxford
9 Penny Ur (1990, p.4), Grammar Practice Activities: A Practical Guide for Teacher,
10 Swan, M (1975) Inside meaning Cambridge: CUP
11 William S M (1938), The Summing Up, The literary of guild America, INC New York
APPENDICES APPENDIX 1 SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE FOR STUDENTS
My name is Pham Manh Tuan, a student from class TAK15.1 at the Faculty of Foreign Language, Hung Yen University of Technology and Education I am conducting a study on the challenges faced by second-year English major students in developing reading skills Your participation in this survey is greatly valued, and I kindly ask you to respond by circling the first letter of each option, ticking the checklist items, or writing your thoughts in the provided spaces Rest assured, all information collected will be used solely for educational purposes, and your identity will remain confidential in any data discussions Your responses will significantly contribute to my research.
Fill in the information where appropriate
4 How long have you been studying English? …… years
II Your attitudes to English reading skills
1 What do you think of the importance of English reading skills?
2 What do you think of the necessary of reading skills of English reading skills?
3 Do you think learning Reading skills is interesting?
4 Do you think learning Reading skills is difficult?
III The elements affecting your learning English reading skills
1 What are the elements affecting in your Pre-reading stage?
Elements Strongly agree Agree Disagree
A: Usually do not understand new vocabulary
B: Never make a list of new vocabulary
E: Students often use bilingual (English-
2 What are the elements affecting while you reading?
Elements Strongly agree Agree Disagree
A: Lack of background knowledge to the topic of reading
A shortage of guiding of the teacher
C: Reading a text without knowing the purpose
D: There are no interesting activities before reading
E: Not enough some basic English reading skills such as prediction, skimming, scanning, guessing new words or headings from a text, inference
3 What are the elements affecting in your Post-reading?
Elements Strongly agree Agree Disagree
Hard to talk about the topic you have read
Hard to write about the topic you have read
IV Solutions to improve reading skills
4 What skills do you find difficult to use?
Elements Strongly agree Agree Disagree
1 What solutions do you suggest for students to improve reading skills?
Elements Strongly agree Agree Disagree
Improve vocabulary by pictures, mind maps, expand new words in many different fields
Study on grammar websites such as
Importance of reading skills
A recent survey revealed that the majority of students recognize the significance of reading in learning English, with 46% rating it as "Very important" and 25% as "Extremely Important." Additionally, 26% consider it "Important," while only 3% view reading as not very important, and none dismiss its value entirely This indicates a strong consensus among students that reading skills greatly impact their English learning journey.
Extremely important Very important Important Not quite important Not important
Chart 4: Necessarity of reading skills
When being asked to evaluate the necessary of English reading skills, most students agree that
Reading is very necessary with 45% On the other hand, 25% said that it is extremely necessary
A significant 27% of students believe that reading is essential, while only 2% consider it somewhat unnecessary and a mere 1% deem it not necessary at all This data, along with the accompanying charts, indicates that reading is viewed as a crucial skill by students, even though many find it challenging and unengaging.
3.3.2 The difficulties in learning English reading skills
Extremely necessary Very necessary Necessary Not quite necessary Not necessary
Chart 5: Difficulties in pre-reading stage
According to a chart analyzing factors affecting students' reading skills in the pre-reading stage, 52% of students identified a lack of background knowledge on the reading topic as a significant barrier to their learning Additionally, 44% strongly agreed and 48% agreed that reading without a clear purpose greatly impacts their comprehension Furthermore, insufficient foundational English reading skills—such as prediction, skimming, scanning, inferring, and guessing new words—are also major contributing factors to their difficulties.
A: Lack of background knowledge to the topic of reading
B: A shortage of guiding of the teacher
C: Reading a text without knowing the purpose
D: There are no interesting activities before reading
E: Not enough some basic English reading skills such as prediction, skimming, scanning, guessing new words or headings from a text, inference
A: Usually do not understand new vocabulary
B: Never make a list of new vocabulary
E: Students often use bilingual (English-Vietnamese) dictionary
According to Chart 6, a significant 83% of students reported that they often struggle to understand new words, despite recognizing them Additionally, 86% of students admitted to not keeping a list of new vocabulary while reading, although this figure decreases to 33% in column C who "Strongly agree" and 24% who "Agree." In contrast, only 24% of students expressed difficulties with grammar, indicating that grammar is less of an issue Furthermore, 85% of students strongly agreed that they frequently rely on dictionaries to enhance their reading skills in English This analysis highlights that students primarily face challenges related to vocabulary acquisition and a reliance on dictionaries.
Chart 7 Difficulties in post-reading
A recent survey reveals that 63% of students find it challenging to discuss the topics they have read, while 72% struggle to write about their readings In contrast, 37% of students disagree with these difficulties This data indicates a significant challenge in comprehending English texts among students.
Hard to talk about topic they have read Hard to write about topic they have read
Chart 8: Difficulties in using reading techniques
According to the data presented in chart 8, a significant number of students face challenges in reading skills, with 55% agreeing that they struggle with Skimming skills Additionally, only 22% report having no difficulties with Scanning, while a substantial 73% express a desire to enhance their Intensive skills Furthermore, 25% of students strongly agree and 50% agree that they require improvement in their Extensive reading skills.
3.3.3 Some suggestions to improve English reading skills
Chart 9 Suggestions to improve students’ learning reading skills related to students
A: Improve vocabulary by pictures, mind maps, expand new words in many different fields B: Study on grammar websites such as Grammar Bytes, Daily Grammar, Oxford English Grammar Course
C: Choose a variety of reading topics
D: Focus on keywords, important phrases, main ideas
The graph illustrates effective strategies for enhancing English reading skills, highlighting that the most favored solution, at 100%, is improving vocabulary through visual aids like pictures and mind maps Students believe that addressing the challenge of unfamiliar words begins with vocabulary enhancement Following this, 85% of students advocate for exploring diverse reading topics, while 75% recommend utilizing grammar websites Additionally, students emphasize the importance of focusing on keywords, key phrases, and main ideas Consequently, the combination of visual vocabulary aids, keyword focus, and varied reading topics presents a comprehensive approach to overcoming reading challenges and advancing students' reading proficiency.
Chart 10 Solutions to improve students’ learning reading skills related to teachers
The graph highlights effective strategies for enhancing students' reading skills as identified by teachers A significant 50% of students believe that creating engaging situations, group activities, and games are the most beneficial methods for improving their listening abilities Other recommended solutions include skill exchanges, participation in training courses, regular use of labs, and fostering a supportive environment Consequently, students express a desire for teachers to implement topic-related activities, interactive games, and diverse exercises in reading classes to further enrich their learning experience.
3.4.1 Attitudes of students about learning English reading skills
Overall, from the collected data it is clear that the attitudes of students and teachers towards learning to listen are especially difficult for students Most students recognize the
A: Exchange and learn skills with other colleagues, increase classroom observation, take part in training courses, pedagogical training
B: Create situations related to the topic of study, group activities, playing games to warm up, choose a variety of exercises
C: Use the lab regularly to ensure each student will have a separate computer
To foster a positive learning environment, it's essential to prioritize both the health and well-being of students before lessons begin Regularly engaging with students and providing friendly, enthusiastic support can help address their challenges Despite the significance of reading skills in mastering a foreign language, especially from the second year onward, many students still perceive reading as an uninteresting skill.
3.4.2 The difficulties perceived by students
A recent study highlights the challenges students face when learning to read in English, particularly due to a lack of background knowledge on reading topics and limited vocabulary Many learners find themselves relying heavily on dictionaries to aid their understanding.
In addition, reading without purpose, not enough some basic English reading skills such as prediction, skimming, scanning, guessing new words or headings from a text, inference are common problems
Many students struggle to articulate or rewrite the content of a document after reading it, indicating that their comprehension of English texts may not be strong.
Besides, the use of reading techniques of many students is missing and weak Most students acknowledge that they have problems using Skimming, Scanning, Intensive, and Extensive
In conclusion, the challenges faced by students and teachers in the learning process stem from various difficulties Key factors contributing to these challenges include insufficient background knowledge on the subject, a limited vocabulary, reliance on dictionaries, and inadequate basic reading skills.
3.4.3 Some suggestions for improving learning English reading skill
From analyzing the difficulties of learning reading skills, I have gathered some suggestions from students to overcome the following possible difficulties as follow:
To enhance students' understanding of complex texts, it is essential for them to diversify their reading materials and topics, as a solid foundation of domain-specific knowledge is crucial for meaningful comprehension Without this background knowledge, constructing a coherent mental model of the content becomes challenging As students advance through their education, the vocabulary and concepts in informational texts become denser, necessitating the application of previously learned ideas to more intricate subjects They must engage in reading, discussion, and writing about increasingly complex topics, drawing connections across various disciplines Additionally, students are expected to provide textual evidence, demonstrate a deep understanding of concepts, and creatively apply their knowledge in innovative ways.
In the realm of reading education, much emphasis has been placed on skills such as decoding, vocabulary development, and metacognition However, there is a notable lack of instructional time dedicated to teaching background knowledge, which is crucial for text comprehension To enhance students' understanding, it is essential to intentionally incorporate background knowledge into the curriculum This can be achieved by encouraging students to engage with diverse materials, such as newspapers, English literature, and films, thereby broadening their contextual understanding and improving their overall comprehension skills.
To effectively expand their vocabulary, students should cultivate the habit of learning new words not just in the classroom, but also through various media such as pictures, mind maps, music, and movies Enhancing written vocabulary is one of the simplest ways to improve reading skills, as the English language offers an immense array of words to discover and utilize A robust vocabulary enriches all forms of writing, including fiction, journalism, essays, and poetry Therefore, investing time in vocabulary development is also an investment in reading proficiency Implementing specific strategies for acquiring new words will help students gradually reduce their reliance on dictionaries.
Difficulties in pre-reading stage
According to a chart analyzing factors affecting students' reading skills, 52% of students identified a lack of background knowledge on the reading topic as a significant barrier to their learning Additionally, 44% strongly agreed and 48% agreed that reading without a clear purpose greatly impacts their comprehension Furthermore, insufficient foundational English reading skills—such as prediction, skimming, scanning, and inferring new words or headings—are also crucial factors hindering their reading development.
A: Lack of background knowledge to the topic of reading
B: A shortage of guiding of the teacher
C: Reading a text without knowing the purpose
D: There are no interesting activities before reading
E: Not enough some basic English reading skills such as prediction, skimming, scanning, guessing new words or headings from a text, inference
A: Usually do not understand new vocabulary
B: Never make a list of new vocabulary
E: Students often use bilingual (English-Vietnamese) dictionary
Difficulties while reading
According to Chart 6, a significant 83% of students reported struggling with understanding new words, while 86% admitted to not keeping a list of new vocabulary during reading This issue is less pronounced in column C, where only 33% strongly agreed and 24% agreed with the statement Conversely, only 24% of students expressed difficulties with grammar, indicating that grammar is less of a concern Additionally, 85% of students strongly agreed that they frequently rely on dictionaries to enhance their reading skills in English Overall, the analysis reveals that students primarily face challenges related to vocabulary acquisition and a reliance on dictionaries.
Difficulties in post-reading
A recent survey revealed that 63% of students find it challenging to discuss the topics they have read, while 72% struggle to write about the material In contrast, 37% and 28% of students disagreed with these difficulties, respectively This data indicates that many students face significant challenges in comprehending English texts.
Hard to talk about topic they have read Hard to write about topic they have read
Difficulties in using reading techniques
According to the data presented in Chart 8, a significant number of students struggle with reading skills, with 55% indicating they "Agree" regarding their difficulties with Skimming Furthermore, only 22% reported having no issues with Scanning, while a substantial 73% expressed a desire to enhance their Intensive skills Additionally, 25% of students "Strongly agree" and 50% "Agree" on the need for improvement in their Extensive skills.
3.3.3 Some suggestions to improve English reading skills
Suggestions to improve students’ learning reading skills related to students
A: Improve vocabulary by pictures, mind maps, expand new words in many different fields B: Study on grammar websites such as Grammar Bytes, Daily Grammar, Oxford English Grammar Course
C: Choose a variety of reading topics
D: Focus on keywords, important phrases, main ideas
The graph illustrates effective strategies for enhancing English reading skills, with a notable emphasis on improving vocabulary through visual aids like pictures and mind maps, which received a perfect score of 100% Students identified the need to address unfamiliar words by first enhancing their vocabulary Additionally, 75% of students recommended utilizing grammar websites, while 85% advocated for exploring diverse reading topics The focus on keywords, important phrases, and main ideas further underscores the importance of these solutions in helping students overcome reading challenges and improve their overall reading proficiency.
Solutions to improve students’ learning reading skills related to teachers
The graph highlights effective strategies for enhancing students' reading skills through teacher involvement A significant 50% of students believe that creating engaging situations, facilitating group activities, and incorporating games are key solutions that improve their listening abilities Other notable strategies include skill exchanges, participation in training courses, regular use of labs, and fostering a supportive environment Consequently, students anticipate that teachers will implement relevant situational learning, interactive group activities, and diverse exercises in reading classes to further their educational experience.
3.4.1 Attitudes of students about learning English reading skills
Overall, from the collected data it is clear that the attitudes of students and teachers towards learning to listen are especially difficult for students Most students recognize the
A: Exchange and learn skills with other colleagues, increase classroom observation, take part in training courses, pedagogical training
B: Create situations related to the topic of study, group activities, playing games to warm up, choose a variety of exercises
C: Use the lab regularly to ensure each student will have a separate computer
To foster a positive learning environment, it is essential to prioritize both the physical and mental well-being of students before lessons Regular communication with students is crucial, as it allows educators to assist them in overcoming challenges in a friendly and enthusiastic manner Despite the significance of reading skills in mastering a foreign language, particularly from the second year onward, many students still perceive reading as an uninteresting skill.
3.4.2 The difficulties perceived by students
A recent study highlights students' challenges in learning to read English, revealing that insufficient background knowledge and limited vocabulary significantly impact their progress Many students find themselves relying heavily on dictionaries to assist with their reading comprehension.
In addition, reading without purpose, not enough some basic English reading skills such as prediction, skimming, scanning, guessing new words or headings from a text, inference are common problems
Many students struggle to articulate or rewrite the content of a document after reading it, indicating that their comprehension of English texts may not be strong.
Besides, the use of reading techniques of many students is missing and weak Most students acknowledge that they have problems using Skimming, Scanning, Intensive, and Extensive
In conclusion, both teachers and students face significant challenges in the learning process, primarily due to various difficulties Key factors contributing to these challenges include a lack of background knowledge on the subject, insufficient vocabulary, reliance on dictionaries, and inadequate basic reading skills.
3.4.3 Some suggestions for improving learning English reading skill
From analyzing the difficulties of learning reading skills, I have gathered some suggestions from students to overcome the following possible difficulties as follow:
To enhance their understanding of complex texts, students should broaden their reading materials and explore diverse topics A solid foundation of domain-specific knowledge is essential for comprehending stories and informational texts, as it helps students build meaningful mental models As students advance through grade levels, the vocabulary and concepts they encounter become denser, necessitating a deeper application of previously learned concepts Engaging with more challenging texts requires students to read, discuss, and write about intricate topics, while also making intertextual connections across various subjects They must provide textual evidence, demonstrate a thorough understanding of concepts, and think creatively about their applications.
In the realm of reading literature, much emphasis has been placed on skills like decoding, vocabulary development, and metacognition, yet insufficient instructional time has been dedicated to teaching background knowledge, a critical component of text comprehension To enhance students' understanding of texts, it is essential to intentionally incorporate background knowledge into the curriculum This can be achieved by encouraging students to engage with diverse resources such as newspapers, English literature, and films, thereby broadening their contextual understanding and improving their comprehension skills.
To enhance vocabulary, students should cultivate the habit of learning new words beyond the classroom, utilizing resources like pictures, mind maps, music, and movies Expanding one's written vocabulary is a straightforward method to improve reading skills, especially given the vastness of the English language, which offers endless opportunities for new word acquisition A robust vocabulary enriches all forms of written expression, including fiction, journalism, essays, and poetry Thus, investing time in vocabulary development is a valuable investment in overall reading proficiency Employing specific strategies for learning new words can help reduce reliance on dictionaries over time.
Understanding basic English reading skills is crucial for students, as acquiring information from lengthy texts can be time-consuming and hinder performance on English language tests To efficiently tackle the reading section, developing speed reading abilities through skimming and scanning techniques is essential Regular practice of these skills, along with effective note-taking, enhancing short-term memory, and filtering relevant information, will significantly improve reading proficiency By focusing on key points and maximizing note-taking, students can enhance their reading capabilities and overall test performance.
In conclusion, the analysis of challenges faced by students has led to the development of effective solutions aimed at enhancing their reading skills This research identifies specific strategies tailored to address each difficulty, based on insights gathered from a student survey.
Based on the findings, survey questionnaires, the researcher proposes some suggestion for teachers, students for the difficulties in studying reading skill
Learning vocabulary by topic enhances student engagement and promotes a systematic approach to knowledge acquisition, ultimately improving vocabulary applicability Each student should maintain a dedicated vocabulary notebook to categorize words into specific themes, such as everyday activities or advanced subjects like technology and software This method not only facilitates flexible use of phrases within the same topic but also streamlines the process of searching for and synthesizing vocabulary, saving valuable time Additionally, dedicating more time to reading can further enrich vocabulary development.
Reading a diverse range of books and documents significantly enhances students' background knowledge and offers numerous benefits Increased reading not only improves vocabulary but also sharpens reading skills Additionally, it equips students with extensive knowledge, enabling them to tackle challenging topics, including English for Specific Purposes (ESP), with confidence These elements are crucial for effectively engaging with academic material.
Reading classic novels is essential for expanding a student's vocabulary, as they offer a rich variety of words that contemporary materials, like celebrity gossip magazines, cannot provide Although classic literature may require more time to comprehend, it effectively demonstrates the practical use of language in conversation and description, making it a valuable resource for language development.
Utilizing audiobooks offers students easy access to a wealth of resources, available online and at local libraries Even if they struggle with comprehension, audiobooks effectively teach correct pronunciation and word placement, enhancing their language skills.
Using images to associate with specific words is an effective technique for teaching second languages in schools By connecting a unique image to a word, students can instantly recall the term whenever they see that image, facilitating its use in sentences and conversations For longer words, breaking them into parts and attaching quirky cartoons to each segment can enhance memory retention The key is to make the images as distinctive and unusual as possible to ensure they are truly memorable.
3.5.1.2 Recommendations to improve reading skills