Chapter I
INTRODUCTION
Chapter 1 furnishes an introduction to the subject matter under consideration, it
consists of background of the study, statement of the problem, significance of the study
and scope and delimitation.
Background of the Study
Reading comprehension is a critical learning skill for all students, involving the
simultaneous processes of extracting and constructing meaning through interaction and
engagement with written language (Clarke et al., 2013). Parents are often unaware of the
causes of reading comprehension difficulties, which may stem from various factors such
as learning disabilities, lack of phonological awareness, or limited vocabulary (Lynch,
2020).
According to Aguilar (2024), today’s generation faces increasingly complex
challenges, particularly within educational institutions. The 21st-century learners,
commonly referred to as Generation Z or "digital natives," are highly adept at using
advanced technologies. This technological evolution has prompted significant demands
for innovation, collaboration, and adaptability in education, requiring institutions to
evolve in response.
In the Philippines, education is given significant importance. However, the rapid
changes in educational setups have posed challenges, and the struggles faced by the
younger generation are not always evident. This study seeks to contribute to positive
changes in reading comprehension by identifying the factors influencing the English
reading proficiency of Grade Six learners at Francisco Austria Memorial Elementary
School.
Statement of the Problem
This study sought answers to address the following questions:
1. What is the demographic profile of Grade Six learners in terms of:
a) age;
b) sex;
c) number of siblings; and
d) family monthly income?
2. What is the level of reading comprehension in English of Grade Six learners?
3. What factors affect the level of reading comprehension in English of Grade Six
learners in terms of:
a) person-related factors;
b) family-related factors;
c) peer-related factors;
d) school-related factors; and
e) community-related factors?
4. Is there a significant relationship between the factors affecting the reading
comprehension level in English of Grade Six learners and their demographic profile?
Significance of the Study
2
This study seeks to provide relevant information about the subject matter from the
respondents, as well as current research or theses and relevant resources for individual as
follows.
School. The results will help the school implement effective approaches to
enhance the reading comprehension of Grade Six learners.
Faculty. Teachers will gain insights into the appropriate strategies to improve
students' reading comprehension skills.
Learners. The findings will help learners understand and address factors that may
affect their reading comprehension, enabling better learning outcomes.
Community. Communities will benefit by understanding the factors that affect
learners' reading comprehension, allowing them to actively support and participate in
addressing these issues.
Researchers. This study identifies the factors affecting reading comprehension,
providing valuable insights for further exploration.
Future Researchers. The findings can serve as a foundation for future studies,
expanding the understanding of this topic.
Scope and Delimitation
This research focuses on studying the factors affecting the level of reading
comprehension in English of Grade Six learners at Francisco Austria Memorial
Elementary School, located in Barangay Maruyogon, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan. The
primary goal is to identify the factors influencing the respondents’ reading
comprehension levels.