Trang 1 FACULTY OF FOREIGN LANGUAGES --- GRADUATION PAPER FIELD: ENGLISH LINGUISTICS A STUDY ON FACTORS AFFECTING READING SKILL OF THE SECOND-YEAR ENGLISH MAJOR STUDENTS AT UTEHY NGHIÊN
INTRODUCTION
Rationale of the study
In recent decades, English has gained significant importance in Vietnam as the primary language for international communication, commerce, and technology Consequently, individuals with strong English skills are in high demand across various sectors Reading, a crucial English skill, offers numerous benefits, serving as a gateway to knowledge through books, magazines, and newspapers It promotes mental development, enhances eye health, and improves concentration while boosting conversational abilities Additionally, reading fosters vocabulary expansion and can develop into a healthy habit, making it essential for daily life in today's world.
Reading is a fundamental skill that shapes our ability to learn and engage with the world around us As children, we learn to read, and as adults, we read to stay informed about current events and global issues (Van, 2009) However, for many children facing reading difficulties, this essential skill can become a source of frustration, often overshadowing their enthusiasm to read without proper guidance (Smit, 1994, p.26) Understanding reading content is crucial for students to extract valuable information, yet many struggle to master this skill With four years of experience studying English at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education, I have recognized that reading proficiency significantly influences students' success in language learning, highlighting the need for effective reading instruction in schools.
The minor thesis titled "A Study on Factors Affecting the Reading Skills of Second-Year English Major Students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education" investigates various factors influencing students' English reading abilities The research aims to identify these factors and propose effective solutions to enhance the reading skills of the students.
Aims of the study
This study investigates the factors influencing the English reading skills of second-year English major students at UTEHY The primary objectives of the research are to identify and analyze these factors to enhance students' reading proficiency.
- To point out some factors affecting student’s reading skill in English
- To give some suggestions for students to improve reading skill in English.
Research questions
1) What factors influence the reading skill of the second year English major students at UTEHY?
2) What are solutions to promote reading skill of the second year English major students at UTEHY?
Scope of the study
To enhance English reading skills among second-year English major students at UTEHY, teachers can employ various techniques and strategies This study focuses on identifying the key factors that influence reading skills within this specific group Due to time constraints, the researcher provides a brief overview of the current state of English reading proficiency among these students, highlights the factors that hinder their reading motivation, and proposes effective solutions to help them improve their reading abilities and overcome challenges.
Methods of the study
The study utilized a qualitative research method, employing questionnaires as the primary data collection tool Over 80 second-year English major students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education participated in the survey Following statistical analysis of the collected data, the findings will be presented, leading to conclusions and recommendations outlined in the paper.
Design of the study
The study is divided four main chapters:
Chapter 1: Introduction gives the reasons why the topic was chosen and stated The basic information provided such as the rationale of the study, the aim of the study, research questions, the scope of the study, the methods of the study, and the design of the study
Chapter 2: Literature review gives the theoretical background of the study on factors affecting reading skill of the second year English major students at Hung Yen University of Technology and Education
Chapter 3: The study provides methodology, data, and analysis, main findings and discussions, and recommendations
Chapter 4: Conclusion summaries all the key issues and give the result of the surveys.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Overview of reading
Reading is a fundamental English skill alongside speaking, listening, and writing, serving as a means to comprehend written messages As Nuttall (2000:2) explains, reading involves an interaction between the writer's and reader's minds, where the reader seeks to extract the intended meaning from the text This process enables the reader to construct the meanings that the writer aims to convey, ultimately facilitating effective communication.
Reading, as defined by Pang (2003), involves understanding written texts through two interconnected processes: word recognition and comprehension Word recognition refers to the ability to match written symbols with spoken language, while comprehension is the interpretation of the meaning behind words, sentences, and connected text A reader's background knowledge, vocabulary, grammatical understanding, and experience with texts play a crucial role in enhancing their reading comprehension Therefore, reading can be viewed as both the immediate recognition of written symbols and the understanding of the ideas conveyed within the text This skill is essential for learners, as it enables them to grasp the meanings of texts encountered in their education.
Reading is a complex process that involves interpreting the writer's message through written language, as noted by Tarigan (2008) Leu (1987) emphasizes that it is a developmental and interactive skill influenced by both linguistic knowledge and various internal and external factors Additionally, Anderson (in Cahyani, 2007) highlights that reading entails understanding the meanings and ideas presented in a text.
According to Finnochiaro (in Cahyani, 2007: 99), reading involves both deriving meaning from and imparting meaning to printed or written texts This definition suggests that reading is a process through which individuals comprehend the messages and intentions conveyed by the writer, ultimately bridging the gap between the reader and the author's ideas.
Reading is a crucial element in both the learning process and social interaction, serving as an essential communication tool in a civilized society The materials available for reading throughout history have been significantly shaped by the prevailing social context Furthermore, the evolution of reading over recorded history has resulted in two distinct trajectories.
Reading is an essential activity that enables individuals to comprehend and interpret written texts, facilitating the acquisition of knowledge and information As noted by Pang et al (2003), reading comprehension involves understanding words, sentences, and the connections between them, requiring both perception and cognitive engagement Effective readers leverage their background knowledge, vocabulary, and grammatical understanding to decode messages conveyed by the writer, which may include feelings, facts, ideas, and arguments Thus, reading is not merely about grasping words or grammar; it is a thoughtful process that necessitates interpreting the text's meaning to achieve a deeper understanding.
English poses challenges for Vietnamese students as a foreign language, making it difficult for them to grasp the meaning of written texts To effectively understand reading materials, students need strong vocabulary skills, comprehension of sentence structure, and an awareness of the author's intent.
Reading is the process of extracting meaning and information from a text, but for students learning English as a foreign language, this can be challenging Many readers struggle to grasp the author's ideas due to limitations in their ability to think critically and analyze the meanings of words and sentences To fully understand the author's message, it is essential for readers to maintain strong concentration while reading.
Reading is a fundamental skill that plays a crucial role in acquiring and sharing knowledge, as highlighted by Dr Seuss's quote, "The more you read, the more things you know." Its significance is evident from a young age, impacting individuals of all ages People learn English for various reasons: children often do so due to parental and educational requirements, while students aim to excel in exams, study abroad, or secure good jobs Adults pursue English to enhance communication with foreigners or for business purposes Despite differing motivations, the common goal is to make English a valuable tool in their lives Factors such as aptitude, age, personality, and motivation greatly influence the success of language learners.
Reading offers numerous benefits that extend beyond basic comprehension, yet many adults underutilize this essential skill In addition to being crucial for navigating today’s society, reading fosters cognitive development and enhances critical thinking in children Emphasizing the importance of reading can significantly contribute to a child's overall growth and learning journey.
Reading helps you discover the world
Reading opens the door to endless learning opportunities, allowing you to explore a wide range of subjects and expand your knowledge in any area of interest With a vast array of books available on virtually every topic, you can easily immerse yourself in new ideas and concepts Additionally, reading can help your child discover their passions and gain insights about themselves through engaging with materials that resonate with them.
Reading develops your imagination and creativity
Television and movies present information directly on the screen, leaving little to the imagination, while books rely solely on words, requiring readers to visualize and bring the narrative to life This engagement with text significantly enhances our creativity and imagination.
Reading improves vocabulary and communication
Providing your child with access to a rich vocabulary through reading is an effective way to enhance their spelling and communication skills Engaging with enjoyable content helps solidify new knowledge, making learning feel effortless Regular reading not only boosts vocabulary but also improves both written and spoken communication abilities.
Reading helps with building a good self-image and playing well with others
Learning new concepts and exploring diverse perspectives are essential for developing a positive self-image and boosting self-esteem, especially in children Early positive reading experiences significantly influence their self-perception, fostering a love for reading Additionally, reading promotes social interaction, allowing children to discuss stories and build friendships based on shared interests.
Reading improves concentration and reduces stress
Reading enhances focus and immerses you in information, leading to improved concentration and memory retention Engaging deeply with a book also promotes relaxation and a sense of calm.
Helps you block out the noise
Short attention spans are the order of the day as lives become a constant stream of interruptions and activity
Difficulties in reading English skill
Many parents are concerned about the breakdown of the reading process and seek to understand its causes Experts highlight that reading difficulties can arise in various areas, but decoding, comprehension, and retention are often identified as the primary roots of these challenges.
Decoding is the process by which a word is broken into individual phonemes and recognized based on those phonemes For example, proficient decoders separate the sounds
Students with decoding difficulties may struggle to differentiate the phonemes "buh," "aah," and "guh" in the word "bag." For these learners, these sounds may appear meaningless when trying to read the word on the page.
Signs of decoding difficulty include reading without expression, confusion between letters and their corresponding sounds, a slow oral reading rate characterized by word-by-word reading, neglecting punctuation, and challenges in sounding out words or recognizing them out of context (Klinger, 2011).
Mastery of decoding is essential for reading comprehension, as children who struggle with this skill often find it challenging to understand and retain information Their focus on deciphering individual words can deplete their cognitive resources, leaving little energy for overall comprehension Signs of comprehension difficulties include an inability to connect ideas, lack of concentration, confusion over word meanings, omission of details, and trouble distinguishing significant information from minor details (Haager, 2003).
Retention of information involves both decoding and comprehension, relying on advanced cognitive skills such as memory and the ability to organize related concepts As students progress through their education, the expectation to retain information from reading increases, making reading for learning a fundamental aspect of classroom activities, particularly by high school Challenges in retention often manifest as difficulties in linking new information to prior knowledge, applying text content to personal experiences, and summarizing or recalling what has been read.
Suggested Remedies for Reading Difficulties:
Research indicates that addressing the language foundations of reading difficulties can significantly aid students facing these challenges Effective remediation involves breaking down reading materials and skills into manageable units, allowing readers to verify their answers immediately after responding This approach can utilize various resources, including workbooks, textbooks, and worksheets, enabling students to identify and correct their mistakes promptly (Torgesen and Mathis, 2010).
Do not know the meaning of a new word from sentence or paragraph
Cannot use own words in note taking, taking brief
Unable to read text loudly and fluently
Causes of difficulties in reading English skill
A robust vocabulary is essential for mastering a new language, as it significantly influences speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills According to Richards and Renandya (2002), vocabulary is a fundamental aspect of language proficiency Without a rich vocabulary and effective strategies for acquiring new words, learners may struggle to reach their full potential and miss out on valuable language learning opportunities, such as engaging with native speakers, listening to the radio, or consuming media in the target language.
When students have to switch the language itself into the target language such as English, they often get confuse to combine and use the proper vocabularies needed
A lack of grammar knowledge can hinder effective communication in English, as grammar involves the structure and formatting of sentences While studying grammar may seem tedious, it is essential for language mastery According to Celce-Murcia (2001), learners often struggle with grammar because they do not learn sentence structures sequentially Even those who seem to have mastered certain structures may experience regression when new forms are introduced into their interlanguage.
Pronunciation is a crucial aspect of learning English, a global language that connects people worldwide It plays a significant role alongside syntax and vocabulary, influencing other areas like reading and grammar Mastering correct pronunciation, particularly of word endings, not only enhances communication but also conveys grammatical information effectively.
Over 250,000 individuals worldwide struggle with self-confidence, which is essential for recognizing our ability to achieve positive outcomes This deficiency in self-assurance can lead students to doubt their reading abilities, significantly impacting their overall reading performance Addressing the lack of self-confidence is crucial for enhancing students' academic success and fostering a positive learning environment.
It is difficult for the students to master English reading if they are not confident with their own reading ability.
Factors affecting English reading skill
Reading involves various factors such as background knowledge, vocabulary and fluency, active reading skills and critical thinking that must work together
Background knowledge is crucial for reading comprehension, as it allows students to connect their existing knowledge with the text This knowledge encompasses both real-world experiences and literary understanding By relating their background knowledge to the material, students engage more actively with the reading, thereby enhancing their comprehension skills.
Mastering vocabulary skills is crucial for students to achieve effective reading comprehension, as it enables them to understand the relationships between familiar words and their context within a text To fully grasp vocabulary, students must recognize a word's part of speech, definition, and useful context clues, as well as its function in a sentence By developing these vocabulary strategies, students can significantly improve their reading comprehension skills, ultimately enhancing their overall academic performance.
Fluent reading enables students to accurately retain information with greater expression and speed This skill is cultivated through consistent reading practice As students enhance their fluency, they focus less on decoding individual words and more on grasping the overall meaning of sentences Ultimately, fluent readers cultivate the ability to respond thoughtfully to texts.
Beginning readers depend on proficient readers for guidance, but as they progress, they learn to monitor their own comprehension They can actively address comprehension issues by identifying problems as they arise By recalling what they have read, posing questions, and assessing the text, students can effectively troubleshoot their understanding.
Critical thinking skills enable students to engage with texts more effectively by helping them identify main ideas, supporting details, and the overall structure As they read, students can discern the sequence of events and recognize literary devices and their impacts on the text This enhanced analytical ability deepens comprehension, leading to a more rewarding reading experience.
Educationalists and researchers have linked reading difficulties to phonological awareness, which is the conscious recognition of sounds in language, distinct from the meaning of words Beck and McKeown (2009) emphasized that while spoken language does not necessitate an awareness of speech sounds, phonological awareness is crucial for reading Savage, Pillay, and Melidona (2008) pointed out that the irregularities in English spelling and reading present significant challenges, as phonological decoding skills are essential for success Ziegler and Goswani (2005) highlighted that phonological awareness is necessary for reading development across all languages, though the representation of phonology in orthography varies Furthermore, Paris (2005) indicated that phonemic awareness, oral reading fluency, and alphabet knowledge are strong predictors of future reading success Lastly, Manis, Lindsey, and Bailey (2004) identified phonemic awareness as a significant cognitive factor contributing to reading difficulties in second language learners.
Many students struggle with reading skills due to insufficient practice time compared to other skills Al Khaseefan (2000) observed that some English teachers fail to employ diverse methods and approaches that assist students in recognizing challenging words during silent reading Additionally, these teachers often do not implement effective teaching strategies to help students organize their reading material This highlights the crucial role teachers play in addressing reading difficulties among students.
THE STUDY
Methodology and Data collection
For this research, the author employed a qualitative method, utilizing a survey questionnaire targeted at students Following the data collection, the author will analyze and present the findings using charts and tables.
Survey questionnaires are a highly effective method for students to gather substantial information quickly and efficiently By distributing a well-constructed questionnaire, researchers can collect data from numerous participants in under an hour, significantly reducing the time and cost compared to traditional interviews The ease of processing this data with modern software further enhances its appeal, making it an ideal choice for those balancing research with full-time jobs (Gillham, 2000) Consequently, researchers often select questionnaires as a primary tool for data collection, allowing for straightforward summarization and reporting of findings without extensive time investment.
The survey questionnaire aimed at students was designed to identify the factors influencing their reading skills and their expectations in English reading classes The questions were categorized into two primary sections.
Part I (Including 2 questions): Student’s general information
Part II (Including 8 questions) consist of three parts: Situation of learning English, factors influence and suggestion in learning reading skill.
Procedures
The subject of my survey is the second year students in foreign language who are studying at UTEHY The data are collected and analyzed by following steps:
- Questionnaire was first delivered to the students at the end of English lesson
- After collecting information, data were consolidated and categorized
- The results then were analyzed and presented in forms of tables, charts and figures Data analysis and findings will be presented and discussed in the next part.
Data analysis
This study involved 75 students from the TAK17 classes across three campuses, primarily consisting of 20-year-olds enrolled in foreign language programs at UTEHY The data collected from the questionnaire responses is presented in the following tables, charts, and figures, illustrating the findings of the analysis.
3.3.1 The situation of the second year English major students at UTEHY in learning English
Question 1: Why do you learn English?
Table 3.1: The reason why students choose to learn English
To make friend with foreigners 44 62
The data reveals that a significant 81.7% of students learn English primarily to secure better job opportunities, highlighting this as the predominant motivation for their language studies.
English is to find a nice job Some students learn English to makes friend with foreigners and pass the exams, which accounts for 62% and 56.3%
In addition, students who study English to study oversea and other reasons are the two reasons why students chose at less They make up 47.9% of the total survey
Question 2: How many hours per day you spend practicing reading English at home?
Chart 3.1: The time that students spend practicing reading English per day at home
The pie chart illustrates the time students dedicate to practicing English reading at home Notably, nearly half of the surveyed students, specifically 30 individuals or 42.3%, spend 2 hours on this activity, indicating a strong interest among second-year students in enhancing their reading skills Following this, 16 students, representing 22.5%, allocate 30 minutes to reading practice In contrast, the time spent on reading for one hour and other durations is relatively lower, with 14 students (19.7%) and 11 students (15.5%), respectively, highlighting a trend where longer study times are more prevalent among the respondents.
Question 3: According to you, what is the importance of reading skill in comparison with other skills?
Chart 3.2: The importance of reading skill in comparison with other skills
The chart illustrates the significance of reading skills in comparison to other abilities According to the data presented, 41 students, representing 57.7%, believe that reading is more essential than other skills for students In contrast, the proportion of students who consider reading to be equally important or less important than other skills is only 42.3%.
In short, reading skill is always important and necessary for students So, students need to improve reading skill more and more
Question 4: What do you think about reading topics given to you in class?
0 more important than other skills as important as other skills less important than other skills
Chart 3.3: Reading topics given to students in class
According to the chart, 39.4% of students (28 individuals) find the reading topics assigned in class to be very interesting Meanwhile, 25.4% (18 students) view the topics as interesting, and 23.9% (17 students) consider them to be normal A small minority, comprising only 11.3% (8 students), perceive the topics as boring.
23,9% boring interesting very interesting normal
Questions 5: How often does your teacher give you feedback?
Chart 3.4 Teacher give students feedback
The chart illustrates that the majority of surveyed students, 52.9% (37 students), sometimes received feedback from teachers, while a significant portion, 38.6% (27 students), often received comments In contrast, only a small percentage of students, 4.3%, reported never receiving feedback or receiving it rarely.
Question 6: What types of reading activities are you asked to take in your class?
Pair work and group work 39 54,9
Table 3.2: reading activities students asked to take in class
The analysis of reading lesson activities reveals that topic summaries are the most prevalent, utilized by 66.2% of students Additionally, discussion and group or pair work are common, with participation rates of 60.6% and 54.9%, respectively Furthermore, 46.5% of students employ skimming and scanning techniques during reading classes In contrast, other reading methods are significantly less popular, with only 25.4% of students using them This data suggests that the most frequently used methods are more effective in enhancing reading skills in the classroom.
Question 7: How often do you encounter difficulties while learning reading skill? always often Sometimes Rarely
Cannot get comprehension of the text 14,08% 53,52% 25,35% 7,05%
Retention Difficulties 14,08% 49,29% 28,17% 8,46% cannot use own words in note taking, taking brief
Do not know the meaning of a new word from sentence or paragraph
Table 3.3 the difficulties that students encounter in learning reading
Data reveals that students face significant challenges in developing English reading skills Notably, 53.52% of students struggle to comprehend texts and understand the meanings of new words within sentences or paragraphs, highlighting these as the primary obstacles to their learning Additionally, many students find it difficult to read aloud effectively.
Retention Difficulties are the two difficulties that the students encountered They make up equally 49.29% All of them are evaluated always by students
Many students struggle with understanding specialist vocabulary, which accounts for 46.48% of the total survey responses Additionally, 30.98% of students find it challenging to identify key ideas, further complicating their learning experience.
Question 8: the causes of difficulties that you encounter in reading skill?
Chart 3.5 the causes of difficulties that students encounter in reading
The chart illustrates the challenges students face in developing reading skills, highlighting that many students attribute their difficulties to insufficient grammar knowledge, a limited vocabulary, and a lack of confidence.
Out of 71 students surveyed, 35-48 (49.3%-77.5%) reported difficulties in their reading skills, with only 20 students (28.2%) identifying poor pronunciation as a challenge This highlights that second-year students primarily struggle with vocabulary, which is a crucial area for improvement Additionally, enhancing grammar, confidence, and pronunciation is essential for overcoming these reading difficulties.
100% lack of vocabulary lack of grammar knowledge lack of confidence poor pronunciation
In short, the main cause of difficulties for students in reading skill is lack of vocabulary, grammar knowledge and confidence So, students should improve those difficulties more and more
Question 9: Which of the ways may help you improve your reading skill?
Chart 3.6: The ways may help you improve your reading skill
The column chart illustrates key strategies for enhancing students' reading skills, highlighting that reviewing what they have read is the most effective method for improvement.
According to recent survey results, the most effective study method accounts for 80.3%, while identifying key words and concepts follows closely at 71.8% A significant number of students believe that writing down new words is an effective strategy, representing 57.7% Taking notes during reading is also prevalent, with a 47.9% preference for creating the right environment In contrast, the practice of scanning text before reading is less common, at 46.5% Additionally, reading frequently and reading out loud are less favored, with only 38% and 29.6% respectively Lastly, a small percentage of students provided alternative methods, accounting for 18.3%.
Review what you are reading by…
Identify key words and concepts
Scan your reading before you read
Take notes on your reading
Read out loud Write down new words you want
Read as often as you can
Question 10: According to you, which factors influence on the reading skill of the students?
Chart 3.7: The factors that influence on their reading skill
The chart illustrates key factors influencing reading skills among second-year students at UTEHY Notably, 80.3% of students identified background knowledge as a crucial element, followed by vocabulary, which was highlighted by 71.8% of respondents Additionally, 49.3% of students acknowledged that critical thinking directly impacts their reading abilities.
A significant 43.7% of students believe that "active reading" is a key factor in enhancing their reading skills, closely followed by the time factor at 42.3% Additionally, phonological awareness plays a crucial role in influencing their reading abilities.
Discussion of the finding
This chapter discusses the findings of the study in order to answer two research questions proposed in the introduction
A recent survey highlighted students' awareness of factors influencing their English reading skills The researcher aimed to gain insights into students' reading experiences during the learning process Results indicated a generally positive attitude toward reading, with students demonstrating an understanding of their interests and challenges Common difficulties identified include limited vocabulary and grammar knowledge, significantly impacting their reading skills While some students face minimal challenges, others struggle considerably, reflecting their individual learning efforts and initiative To gather accurate data on reading difficulties, the questionnaire allowed students to select multiple responses regarding their challenges in learning to read.
To help students overcome their challenges in learning English, it is essential for them to put in significant effort Many students believe that enhancing their vocabulary related to society and culture, along with mastering grammar structures, is crucial Additionally, focusing on pronunciation and building self-confidence are effective strategies for improving reading skills Each student should choose methods that align with their individual English proficiency and learning level.
3.6 Solutions for the students to learn English Reading skill
Reading can be challenging for many, but improving your skills requires time, patience, and practice Understanding the purpose of your reading is crucial; for instance, reading instructions for building furniture differs significantly from studying a textbook Once you identify your reading goal, you can choose between intensive reading techniques that emphasize vocabulary and speed, or extensive techniques that promote a deeper engagement with the text's meaning.
Scan your reading before you begin
Regardless of your reading objectives, spending a few moments reviewing the material can significantly enhance your comprehension Examine the structure and presentation of the work, as these elements are crucial for understanding Look for a clear title, a table of contents for easy navigation, and distinct sections that organize the content effectively.
“extras,” like bolded key words, illustrations, or graphs?
Improving your reading skills involves engaging with the text both visually and aurally, as you read the words and listen to them Reading aloud is essential for practicing pronunciation When encountering unfamiliar words, avoid immediately consulting a dictionary; instead, try to infer their meanings from the surrounding context For instance, in the sentence "My mother is always happy and optimistic, the total opposite of my brother, the pessimist," you can deduce that "pessimist" refers to someone who is moody and unhappy, contrasting with the positive tone of the sentence.
Write down new words you want to learn
When encountering unfamiliar words, jot them down and consult a reliable dictionary for their meanings This practice not only enhances your vocabulary but also allows for effective study of the words later on.
Read as often as you can
Reading regularly for 15 to 30 minutes each day significantly enhances your skills Choose materials that genuinely interest you to boost your basic reading abilities Additionally, revisiting texts you've previously read can help reinforce your confidence in reading.
Take notes on your reading
To enhance your understanding while studying a textbook, engage in active reading by keeping a notebook handy Take notes on significant concepts, summarizing major ideas in bullet points Additionally, jot down key terms and dates, and if you encounter any confusing sections, write down your questions to revisit later This methodical approach will deepen your comprehension and retention of the material.
Review what you’re reading by summarizing it
Periodically summarizing what you've read by jotting down key points in your own words is an effective way to enhance comprehension and retention This practice not only reinforces your understanding but also aids in memory recall If you encounter difficulties in summarizing or remembering certain sections, revisit the material for clarity Additionally, consider organizing your thoughts in an outline format instead of complete sentences to streamline the summarization process.
Identify key words and concepts
When reading a text, it's crucial to identify and note essential words or concepts, especially those highlighted in bold or featured in a vocabulary section Consider writing these down for later study or creating flashcards to reinforce your understanding If you encounter important terms that lack clear definitions, take the initiative to look them up in a dictionary or encyclopedia Additionally, pay attention to frequently used words, as their repetition indicates significance within the material and warrants further investigation.
Choose the right reading environment
To enhance your reading concentration, it's essential to eliminate distractions such as television, music, phones, computers, and noisy individuals These interruptions can hinder your focus, prolonging the reading process and leading to frustration Ideally, choose a quiet and well-lit environment, equipped with a comfortable chair and desk, to create an optimal reading experience.
CONCLUSION
Suggestions for further study
In addition, students who study English to study oversea and other reasons are the two reasons why students chose at less They make up 47.9% of the total survey
Question 2: How many hours per day you spend practicing reading English at home?
the time that students spend practicing reading English per day at home
The pie chart illustrates the time students dedicate to practicing English reading at home Notably, nearly half of the surveyed students, 30 in total, spend 2 hours on this activity, representing 42.3% of the participants This suggests a strong interest in reading among second-year students Following this, 16 students, or 22.5%, practice for 30 minutes, while 14 students (19.7%) and 11 students (15.5%) spend one hour and other varying times, respectively, indicating these durations are less common among the respondents.
Question 3: According to you, what is the importance of reading skill in comparison with other skills?
Chart 3.2: The importance of reading skill in comparison with other skills
The chart illustrates the significance of reading skills in relation to other competencies According to the data from Chart 2, 41 students, representing 57.7%, believe that reading is more essential than other skills for students In contrast, those who consider reading to be equally important or less important than other skills make up a combined total of only 42.3%.
In short, reading skill is always important and necessary for students So, students need to improve reading skill more and more
Question 4: What do you think about reading topics given to you in class?
0 more important than other skills as important as other skills less important than other skills
Chart 3.3: Reading topics given to students in class
According to the chart, 39.4% of students find the reading topics assigned in class to be very interesting, while 25.4% and 23.9% consider them interesting and normal, respectively Only a small percentage, 11.3%, of students perceive the topics as boring.
23,9% boring interesting very interesting normal
Questions 5: How often does your teacher give you feedback?
Chart 3.4 Teacher give students feedback
The chart illustrates that 52.9% of surveyed students, totaling 37 individuals, sometimes received comments from teachers, making this the most common response Additionally, 38.6% of students, or 27 individuals, reported often receiving feedback In contrast, only 4.3% of students, representing a small group, indicated they never received teacher feedback or received it rarely.
Question 6: What types of reading activities are you asked to take in your class?
Pair work and group work 39 54,9
Table 3.2: reading activities students asked to take in class
The analysis reveals that reading lessons prominently feature various activities, with topic summaries being the most prevalent at 66.2% Additionally, discussions and group or pair work are common, occurring at rates of 60.6% and 54.9%, respectively Furthermore, 46.5% of students utilize skimming and scanning techniques during reading classes In contrast, alternative methods are significantly less employed, comprising only 25.4% of the activities This data suggests that the most frequently used methods are more effective in enhancing reading skills in the classroom.
Question 7: How often do you encounter difficulties while learning reading skill? always often Sometimes Rarely
Cannot get comprehension of the text 14,08% 53,52% 25,35% 7,05%
Retention Difficulties 14,08% 49,29% 28,17% 8,46% cannot use own words in note taking, taking brief
Do not know the meaning of a new word from sentence or paragraph
Table 3.3 the difficulties that students encounter in learning reading
Data indicates that students face significant challenges in developing English reading skills, with 53.52% struggling to comprehend text and understand new vocabulary within sentences or paragraphs Additionally, many students find it difficult to read aloud effectively.
Retention Difficulties are the two difficulties that the students encountered They make up equally 49.29% All of them are evaluated always by students
A significant 46.48% of students struggle with understanding specialist vocabulary and relating it to the context, while 30.98% find it challenging to identify key ideas.
Question 8: the causes of difficulties that you encounter in reading skill?
Chart 3.5 the causes of difficulties that students encounter in reading
The chart illustrates the primary challenges students face in developing their reading skills It reveals that a significant number of students attribute their difficulties to insufficient grammar knowledge, a limited vocabulary, and a lack of confidence in their reading abilities.
Out of 71 students surveyed, between 35 to 48 students (49.3%-77.5%) reported challenges in their reading skills, with only 20 students (28.2%) identifying poor pronunciation as a primary difficulty This suggests that second-year students primarily struggle with vocabulary issues, highlighting the need for focused improvement in this area Additionally, enhancing grammar, confidence, and pronunciation is essential for overcoming these reading challenges.
100% lack of vocabulary lack of grammar knowledge lack of confidence poor pronunciation
In short, the main cause of difficulties for students in reading skill is lack of vocabulary, grammar knowledge and confidence So, students should improve those difficulties more and more
Question 9: Which of the ways may help you improve your reading skill?
Chart 3.6: The ways may help you improve your reading skill
The column chart illustrates key strategies for enhancing students' reading skills, highlighting that reviewing previously read materials is the most effective method for improvement.
According to the survey results, the most effective study method is reading comprehension, accounting for 80.3% Identifying key words and concepts follows closely at 71.8% Additionally, many students find that writing down new words is beneficial, representing 57.7% of responses Taking notes during reading is also significant, with 47.9% of students choosing this method, while scanning the material before reading is slightly lower at 46.5% In contrast, the practices of reading frequently and reading aloud are less popular, with only 38% and 29.6% respectively Lastly, alternative methods mentioned by some students account for 18.3%.
Review what you are reading by…
Identify key words and concepts
Scan your reading before you read
Take notes on your reading
Read out loud Write down new words you want
Read as often as you can
Question 10: According to you, which factors influence on the reading skill of the students?
Chart 3.7: The factors that influence on their reading skill
The chart illustrates key factors affecting the reading skills of second-year students at UTEHY Notably, 80.3% of students identified background knowledge as the most influential factor, followed by vocabulary, which received 71.8% of the votes Additionally, 49.3% of students acknowledged that critical thinking significantly impacts their reading abilities.
A significant 43.7% of students believe that "active reading" is a crucial factor in improving their reading skills, closely followed by the time factor at 42.3% Additionally, phonological awareness plays an important role in enhancing their reading abilities.
The chart illustrates various factors affecting second-year English major students at UTEHY, with background knowledge emerging as the most significant influence on their reading skills.
Vocabulary Active reading Critical thinking
This chapter discusses the findings of the study in order to answer two research questions proposed in the introduction
A recent survey revealed students' awareness of factors influencing their English reading skills, highlighting their engagement in the learning process The results indicated a positive attitude towards reading, with students demonstrating knowledge of their interests and challenges Common difficulties identified included limited vocabulary, grammar issues, and lack of knowledge, with vocabulary deficiency being particularly impactful While some students faced minimal challenges, others encountered significant obstacles, influenced by their motivation and initiative in learning To ensure comprehensive data collection, the researcher allowed multiple responses regarding reading difficulties in the questionnaire.
Reading topics given to students in class
According to the chart, 39.4% of students (28 individuals) find the reading topics assigned in class to be very interesting Meanwhile, 25.4% (18 students) and 23.9% (17 students) perceive the topics as interesting and average, respectively Only a small minority, 11.3% (8 students), consider the reading topics to be boring.
23,9% boring interesting very interesting normal
Questions 5: How often does your teacher give you feedback?
Teacher give students feedback
The chart illustrates that 52.9% of surveyed students, totaling 37 individuals, sometimes received comments from their teachers, making it the most common response Additionally, 38.6% of students, or 27 individuals, reported often receiving teacher feedback In contrast, only a small percentage, 4.3%, indicated that they either never received comments or received them rarely, with both categories having the same number of respondents.
Question 6: What types of reading activities are you asked to take in your class?
Pair work and group work 39 54,9
Table 3.2: reading activities students asked to take in class
The analysis reveals that reading lessons prominently feature topic summaries as the most prevalent activity, utilized by 66.2% of students Additionally, discussions and group or pair work are common, with participation rates of 60.6% and 54.9%, respectively Furthermore, 46.5% of students employ skimming and scanning techniques during these lessons In contrast, other reading methods are significantly less utilized, accounting for only 25.4% This data indicates that the most frequently used strategies are notably effective in enhancing reading skills in the classroom.
Question 7: How often do you encounter difficulties while learning reading skill? always often Sometimes Rarely
Cannot get comprehension of the text 14,08% 53,52% 25,35% 7,05%
Retention Difficulties 14,08% 49,29% 28,17% 8,46% cannot use own words in note taking, taking brief
Do not know the meaning of a new word from sentence or paragraph
Table 3.3 the difficulties that students encounter in learning reading
Data indicates that students face significant challenges in developing English reading skills Notably, 53.52% of students struggle to comprehend texts and understand the meaning of new words within sentences or paragraphs Additionally, many students find it difficult to read aloud effectively.
Retention Difficulties are the two difficulties that the students encountered They make up equally 49.29% All of them are evaluated always by students
Many students struggle with specialist vocabulary and contextual understanding, as indicated by 46.48% of survey respondents Additionally, 30.98% of students find it challenging to identify key ideas, further complicating their learning experience.
Question 8: the causes of difficulties that you encounter in reading skill?
The causes of difficulties that students encounter in reading
The chart illustrates the challenges students face in developing their reading skills It reveals that a significant number of students attribute their difficulties to insufficient grammar knowledge, a limited vocabulary, and a lack of confidence.
Out of 71 students surveyed, 35 to 48 students (49.3%-77.5%) reported facing challenges in their studies, with only 20 students (28.2%) identifying poor pronunciation as a difficulty This highlights that second-year students primarily struggle with vocabulary, which is crucial for enhancing their reading skills Additionally, students should focus on improving their grammar, confidence, and pronunciation to further overcome learning obstacles.
100% lack of vocabulary lack of grammar knowledge lack of confidence poor pronunciation
In short, the main cause of difficulties for students in reading skill is lack of vocabulary, grammar knowledge and confidence So, students should improve those difficulties more and more
Question 9: Which of the ways may help you improve your reading skill?
The ways may help you improve your reading skill
The column chart illustrates various strategies for enhancing students' reading skills, highlighting that reviewing what they have read is the most effective method.
In a recent survey, 80.3% of students reported that identifying key words and concepts is an effective study method, followed closely by 71.8% who emphasized the importance of taking notes Additionally, 57.7% of participants found writing down new words to be beneficial, while 47.9% highlighted the significance of choosing the right environment for reading The practice of scanning material before reading was noted by 46.5% of students, which is lower than the previous methods In contrast, reading frequently and reading aloud were less popular, with only 38% and 29.6% of students endorsing these techniques, respectively Furthermore, 18.3% of students provided alternative strategies not covered in the survey.
Review what you are reading by…
Identify key words and concepts
Scan your reading before you read
Take notes on your reading
Read out loud Write down new words you want
Read as often as you can
Question 10: According to you, which factors influence on the reading skill of the students?
Chart 3.7: The factors that influence on their reading skill
The chart indicates that second-year students at UTEHY believe several factors significantly influence their reading skills Notably, 80.3% of students identified background knowledge as a crucial factor, while 71.8% emphasized the importance of vocabulary Additionally, 49.3% of students acknowledged that critical thinking directly impacts their reading abilities.
A significant 43.7% of students believe that "active reading" is a key factor in enhancing their reading skills, closely followed by the time factor at 42.3% Additionally, phonological awareness plays a crucial role in influencing their reading abilities.
The chart highlights several factors affecting second-year English major students at UTEHY, with background knowledge being the most significant This foundational knowledge directly influences their reading skills, underscoring its importance in their academic performance.
Vocabulary Active reading Critical thinking
This chapter discusses the findings of the study in order to answer two research questions proposed in the introduction
The survey results indicate that students are aware of various factors influencing their English reading skills Researchers aimed to gain insights into students' reading experiences during the learning process The survey revealed a generally positive attitude towards reading, with students demonstrating awareness of their interests and challenges Common difficulties include limited vocabulary, grammar issues, and a lack of knowledge, with vocabulary deficits significantly impacting comprehension While some students face minimal challenges, others struggle considerably, highlighting the importance of individual learning motivation and initiative To ensure accurate data, the questionnaire allowed students to select multiple responses regarding their reading difficulties.
To help students overcome their challenges in learning English, it is essential for them to put in significant effort Many students believe that enhancing their vocabulary related to society and culture, along with mastering grammar structures, is crucial Additionally, focusing on pronunciation and building self-confidence can greatly improve reading skills Each student should choose strategies that align with their individual English proficiency and learning level.
3.6 Solutions for the students to learn English Reading skill
Reading effectively requires time, patience, and practice, as many struggle with it Understanding the purpose of your reading—whether it's following furniture assembly instructions or studying a textbook—is crucial Once you identify your reading goal, you can choose between intensive reading techniques that emphasize vocabulary and speed, or extensive techniques that promote a deeper engagement with the text's meaning.
Scan your reading before you begin
Before diving into a reading, take a moment to assess its structure and presentation, as this can significantly enhance your understanding Look for key elements such as the title, a table of contents for quick navigation, and whether the content is divided into distinct sections These simple steps can provide valuable insights into the work's organization and main ideas.
“extras,” like bolded key words, illustrations, or graphs?
Improving your reading skills involves engaging with the text visually and aurally, such as by reading aloud, which also aids in practicing pronunciation When encountering unfamiliar words, resist the urge to immediately consult a dictionary; instead, try to infer their meanings from the surrounding context For instance, in the sentence "My mother is always happy and optimistic, the total opposite of my brother, the pessimist," you can deduce that "pessimist" refers to someone who is moody and unhappy, contrasting with optimism.
Write down new words you want to learn
If you encounter unfamiliar words, jot them down and consult a reliable dictionary for their meanings This approach not only helps you understand the words better but also allows for effective later study.
Read as often as you can
Reading regularly for just 15 to 30 minutes each day can significantly enhance your skills Choose materials that captivate your interest to improve your basic reading abilities Additionally, revisiting texts you’ve previously read can boost your confidence in your reading proficiency.
Take notes on your reading
To enhance your understanding while studying a textbook, engage in active reading by keeping a notebook handy to jot down key points and major ideas Summarize important concepts using bullet points, and take note of essential terms and dates If you encounter sections that are unclear, record your questions for further exploration later This approach will deepen your comprehension and retention of the material.
Review what you’re reading by summarizing it
To enhance comprehension and retention of your reading material, periodically summarize key points in your notes By rephrasing main ideas in your own words, you can verify your understanding and reinforce memory If you encounter difficulties in summarizing or recalling specific sections, revisit those parts for clarification Additionally, consider organizing your summaries in an outline format instead of full sentences for a more structured approach.
Identify key words and concepts
When reading a text, it's crucial to identify and note essential words or concepts, which may be highlighted in bold or found in a dedicated vocabulary section Consider writing these terms down for later study or creating flashcards for effective memorization If you encounter an important word that lacks a clear definition, take the initiative to look it up in a dictionary or encyclopedia, whether online or in print Additionally, pay attention to frequently used words, as their repetition indicates significance in the context of the material you are reading.
Choose the right reading environment