Fonologi: Jurnal Ilmuan Bahasa dan Sastra Inggris

Vol. 2, No. 3 September 2024

e-ISSN: 3025-6003, p-ISSN: 3025-5996, Hal 16-25
DOI: https://doi.org/10.61132/fonologi.v2i2.774

Strategies to Improve English Reading Comprehension

Lailan Fadila
North Sumatra State Islamic University
Email: lailanfadhila@gmail.com

Sakinah Amaliyah Dalimunthe

North Sumatra State Islamic University
Email: sakinahdalimunthe45@gmail.com

Nursakinah Siagian
North Sumatra State Islamic University
Email: sakinahsiagian82@gmail.com

Address: Jl. William Iskandar Ps. V, Medan Estate, Kec. Percut Sei Tuan, Kab. Deli Serdang, North
Sumatra 20371
Author Correspondence: lailanfadhila@gmail.com

Abstract. This study explores strategies aimed at enhancing English reading comprehension. With the backdrop
of a complex information era, where proficient reading skills are crucial for accessing and applying information,
the study focuses on interactive reading techniques, vocabulary acquisition, prior knowledge activation, and
reading fluency as key components. The research adopts a literature review approach, synthesizing findings from
existing studies to identify effective strategies. The primary objective is to ascertain which methods best contribute
to improved reading comprehension in educational settings. Findings indicate that interactive techniques such as
group discussions and role-playing, coupled with explicit vocabulary instruction and prior knowledge activation
strategies, significantly enhance comprehension levels. Furthermore, fostering reading fluency through repeated
reading and guided oral sessions positively correlates with improved comprehension abilities. The study
concludes that a holistic approach integrating these strategies is essential for developing proficient readers who
can engage effectively with diverse texts and contexts.

Keywords: Strategy, Improve, English Reading, Comprehension.

Abstrak. Penelitian ini mengeksplorasi strategi yang bertujuan untuk meningkatkan pemahaman membaca
bahasa Inggris. Dengan latar belakang era informasi yang kompleks, di mana keterampilan membaca sangat
penting untuk mengakses dan menerapkan informasi, penelitian ini berfokus pada teknik membaca interaktif,
perolehan kosa kata, aktivasi pengetahuan sebelumnya, dan kefasihan membaca sebagai komponen utama.
Penelitian ini mengadopsi pendekatan tinjauan pustaka, mensintesis temuan dari penelitian yang ada untuk
mengidentifikasi strategi yang efektif. Tujuan utamanya adalah untuk memastikan metode mana yang paling
berkontribusi terhadap peningkatan pemahaman membaca di lingkungan pendidikan. Temuan menunjukkan
bahwa teknik interaktif seperti diskusi kelompok dan permainan peran, ditambah dengan instruksi kosakata
eksplisit dan strategi aktivasi pengetahuan sebelumnya, secara signifikan meningkatkan tingkat pemahaman.
Selain itu, meningkatkan kefasihan membaca melalui membaca berulang-ulang dan sesi lisan terbimbing
berkorelasi positif dengan peningkatan kemampuan pemahaman. Studi ini menyimpulkan bahwa pendekatan
holistik yang mengintegrasikan strategi-strategi ini sangat penting untuk mengembangkan pembaca yang mahir
dan dapat terlibat secara efektif dengan beragam teks dan konteks.

Kata kunci: Strategi, Peningkatan, Membaca Bahasa Inggris, Pemahaman.

INTRODUCTION
Reading comprehension is a fundamental skill essential for academic success and
lifelong learning. Despite its importance, many learners, especially those for whom English is
a second language, struggle with comprehending texts effectively. This difficulty often stems
from a lack of vocabulary, insufficient background knowledge, and inadequate reading

Received: Juli 31, 2024; Accepted: Juni 20, 2024; Published: September 30, 2024
* Lailan Fadila lailanfadhila@gmail.com
 Strategies to Improve English Reading Comprehension

strategies. The National Reading Panel (2000) emphasizes the need for explicit instruction in
reading strategies to enhance comprehension skills.
Moreover, studies have shown that interactive and engaging reading techniques can
significantly improve comprehension outcomes (Guthrie et al., 2004). Vocabulary acquisition
is also crucial, as it directly influences the ability to understand and process information (Stahl
& Nagy, 2006). Activating prior knowledge before reading has been demonstrated to facilitate
better understanding of new material, as it helps readers make connections with the text
(Pressley & Afflerbach, 1995). Additionally, reading fluency, which includes accuracy, speed,
and proper expression, has a strong correlation with comprehension (Rasinski, 2004).
Reading is one of the fundamental skills essential in everyday life. In today's highly
complex and dynamic information era, good reading ability is necessary to access, understand,
and apply information obtained from various sources. However, many people, especially
children and adolescents, struggle to comprehend texts they read, particularly in English
(Nidoy & Moneva, n.d.). This difficulty is caused by various factors, such as a lack of
motivation and interest, the influence of the first language, and insufficient background
knowledge. Good reading ability not only helps individuals access information but also enables
them to communicate effectively, solve problems, and make informed decisions (Chaniago &
Depi Yunaspi, 2021). Therefore, effective strategies to improve reading skills and text
comprehension are highly needed.
To address these challenges, educators and researchers have developed various
strategies aimed at improving reading comprehension, including interactive reading
techniques, vocabulary building exercises, prior knowledge activation, and fluency training.
These strategies, supported by empirical research, provide a comprehensive approach to
enhancing English reading comprehension, making it imperative to explore and implement
them effectively in educational settings.
This research aims to identify the most effective strategies to enhance reading skills and
text comprehension in English. Thus, this study is expected to contribute to the development
of better reading skills and improve individuals' ability to access and understand information
from various sources.

RESEARCH METHODS
The research methodology employed in this study is library research, also known as a
literature review or secondary research. This method involves the comprehensive analysis of
existing academic and scholarly resources, including books, peer-reviewed journal articles,

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dissertations, conference papers, and credible online sources. The primary objective is to
gather, evaluate, and synthesize relevant information and findings from previous studies related
to strategies for improving English reading comprehension. By systematically reviewing the
literature, this research aims to identify and categorize the various strategies that have been
proposed and tested, highlighting their effectiveness and applicability in different educational
contexts.
The process begins with defining specific research questions and keywords to guide the
search for relevant literature. Subsequently, a thorough search is conducted across multiple
academic databases such as JSTOR, PubMed, Google Scholar, and educational resource
centers. The collected literature is then critically analyzed to extract pertinent data, theories,
methodologies, and outcomes. This analysis includes comparing and contrasting different
studies to understand the commonalities and divergences in findings. Furthermore, the research
identifies gaps in the existing literature, providing a foundation for future research endeavors.
The synthesis of the gathered information results in a comprehensive overview of
effective strategies for improving English reading comprehension, including interactive
reading techniques, vocabulary acquisition methods, prior knowledge activation, and fluency
training. By leveraging existing research, this study aims to present a well-rounded and
evidence-based perspective on the most effective practices, thereby contributing valuable
insights to educators, policymakers, and researchers dedicated to enhancing reading
comprehension skills.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Interactive Reading Techniques
Interactive reading techniques are essential in enhancing English reading
comprehension by engaging students actively with the text and promoting collaborative
learning (Suciani et al., 2022). These methods foster a deeper understanding and retention of
material by making the reading process more dynamic and participatory.
1. Group Discussions
Group discussions allow students to share their interpretations and insights about a
text, which can lead to a richer understanding. Discussing different viewpoints helps
students to see beyond their initial perceptions and consider alternative interpretations.
Research has shown that collaborative discussion can significantly improve comprehension
and critical thinking skills (Montera Cadiong, 2019).
 Strategies to Improve English Reading Comprehension

2. Role-Playing
Role-playing involves students acting out scenes or characters from a text, which
helps them to engage more deeply with the material. This method encourages empathy and
a deeper connection to the text, enhancing comprehension. Role-playing can make abstract
or complex concepts more concrete and relatable (Tompkins, 2010).
3. Peer Teaching
In peer teaching, students take turns teaching parts of the text to each other. This
strategy reinforces their understanding because teaching requires a thorough grasp of the
material. Peer teaching has been found to be particularly effective in improving reading
comprehension among students.
4. Technology-Assisted Tools
The use of technology, such as interactive e-books and reading apps, can provide
engaging ways for students to interact with texts. These tools often include features like
interactive quizzes, multimedia annotations, and instant feedback, which can enhance
comprehension and retention (Dalton & Proctor, 2008).
5. Guided Reading Sessions
Guided reading sessions involve the teacher working with small groups of students
at their instructional reading level. During these sessions, the teacher provides targeted
support and scaffolding to help students improve their comprehension skills. This
personalized approach ensures that students receive the help they need to progress (Ibrahim
et al., 2024).
Interactive reading techniques make the reading process more engaging and effective
by encouraging active participation, collaboration, and the use of diverse learning tools. By
incorporating these strategies into reading instruction, educators can help students develop
stronger comprehension skills and a more profound love for reading.
Vocabulary Acquisition and Its Role in Comprehension
Vocabulary acquisition is a critical component in the development of reading
comprehension skills. A robust vocabulary allows readers to understand and interpret texts
more effectively, as it provides the necessary language tools to decode and make sense of the
content. Without a sufficient vocabulary, readers are likely to struggle with understanding the
nuances and meanings within a text, which can impede overall comprehension.
1. Relationship Between Vocabulary and Comprehension
Research consistently shows a strong correlation between vocabulary knowledge and
reading comprehension. Vocabulary acts as a foundation for comprehension, enabling

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readers to understand the meaning of words, phrases, and sentences within a text.
According to (Stahl and Nagy, 2006), students with a larger vocabulary are better equipped
to understand and engage with complex texts, leading to improved comprehension
outcomes.
2. Strategies for Vocabulary Acquisition
a) Explicit Instruction
Teaching vocabulary explicitly involves direct instruction of word meanings,
usage, and context. This method includes activities such as defining words, using them
in sentences, and exploring synonyms and antonyms. Explicit instruction helps students
to internalize and retain new vocabulary, making it easier to recognize and understand
these words when encountered in texts.
b) Contextual Learning
Learning vocabulary in context involves exposing students to new words within
the framework of a sentence or a passage. This strategy helps students to infer meanings
based on the surrounding text and develop a deeper understanding of how words are
used in different contexts. Contextual learning is effective because it mirrors the natural
way language is acquired.
c) Word Consciousness
Encouraging word consciousness involves fostering an awareness and interest
in words and their meanings. Activities that promote word consciousness include word
games, word maps, and encouraging students to be on the lookout for interesting or
unfamiliar words in their reading. This approach helps to create a more engaging and
enjoyable vocabulary learning experience (Graves, 2006).
d) Mnemonic Devices
Mnemonic devices are memory aids that help students remember new
vocabulary by associating words with images, rhymes, or other mnemonic techniques.
These devices can be particularly helpful for retaining difficult or abstract words,
making them easier to recall during reading.
3. Implementing Vocabulary Strategies in the Classroom
Effective vocabulary instruction requires a multifaceted approach that integrates
various strategies to cater to different learning styles. Teachers can implement a
combination of explicit instruction, contextual learning, and activities that promote word
consciousness and mnemonic devices to enhance vocabulary acquisition. Regular practice
 Strategies to Improve English Reading Comprehension

and reinforcement through reading and writing activities also play a crucial role in
solidifying vocabulary knowledge.
4. The Impact of Vocabulary on Comprehension
A well-developed vocabulary not only aids in decoding and understanding texts but
also enhances students' ability to think critically and engage deeply with the material.
Vocabulary knowledge enables readers to make connections, draw inferences, and grasp
the subtleties of language, all of which are essential for proficient reading comprehension
(Chaniago & Depi Yunaspi, 2021).
By prioritizing vocabulary acquisition, educators can significantly improve students'
reading comprehension skills. A rich vocabulary provides the essential building blocks for
understanding complex texts and fosters a lifelong love of reading.
The Impact of Prior Knowledge Activation
Prior knowledge activation plays a crucial role in enhancing reading comprehension, as
it allows readers to connect new information with their existing knowledge base. When readers
activate their prior knowledge before engaging with a text, they are better equipped to
understand, interpret, and retain the information presented. This cognitive process involves
recalling relevant background knowledge, experiences, and concepts that relate to the content
of the text, which facilitates a deeper and more meaningful comprehension.
The importance of prior knowledge in reading comprehension is supported by extensive
research. According to schema theory, readers' comprehension is significantly influenced by
their ability to relate new information to pre-existing knowledge structures, or schemas, in their
minds (Nidoy & Moneva, n.d.). These schemas help readers to predict, infer, and fill in gaps
within the text, making the reading experience more coherent and understandable. For example,
a student with prior knowledge about climate change will find it easier to grasp a new article
on the subject because they can link the new information to what they already know (Montera
Cadiong, 2019).
One effective method for activating prior knowledge is the use of pre-reading activities.
Techniques such as K-W-L charts (Know, Want to know, Learned) encourage students to
articulate what they already know about a topic and what they hope to learn. This process not
only primes their minds for new information but also sets a purpose for reading, which can
increase motivation and engagement. Another strategy is the use of discussion questions or
brainstorming sessions before reading, allowing students to share their existing knowledge and
set the stage for integrating new information (Suciani et al., 2022).

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Additionally, visual aids such as concept maps or graphic organizers can help students
to visually connect their prior knowledge with new concepts. These tools provide a structured
way for students to organize their thoughts and see relationships between ideas, which can
enhance comprehension and recall (Novak & Gowin, 1984). For instance, creating a concept
map about a historical event before reading a detailed account can help students to see how
different events and figures are interconnected.
Moreover, teachers can use storytelling or analogies related to students' personal
experiences to make new content more relatable. By drawing parallels between the text and
familiar concepts, students can better understand and retain new information. For example,
explaining a scientific principle using everyday examples can make abstract ideas more
concrete and understandable.
The activation of prior knowledge not only aids in comprehension but also in critical
thinking and problem-solving. When students relate new information to what they already
know, they are more likely to question, analyze, and evaluate the content critically. This
process leads to a deeper level of understanding and the ability to apply knowledge in various
contexts (Pressley & Afflerbach, 1995).
Activating prior knowledge is a powerful strategy for improving reading
comprehension. By connecting new information to existing knowledge, readers can enhance
their understanding, retention, and critical engagement with texts. Educators should
incorporate techniques such as pre-reading activities, visual aids, and relatable analogies to
effectively activate prior knowledge and support students in becoming proficient and
thoughtful readers.
Reading Fluency and Its Connection to Comprehension
Reading fluency is a critical component of effective reading and is closely linked to
reading comprehension. Fluency refers to the ability to read a text accurately, quickly, and with
appropriate expression. When students read fluently, they can focus their cognitive resources
on understanding the text rather than on decoding individual words. This shift from decoding
to comprehension allows for smoother and more efficient reading, leading to better overall
understanding of the material.
Fluency encompasses several elements: accuracy in word recognition, automaticity in
word decoding, and prosody, which involves the rhythm and intonation of speech. Research
has shown that these elements work together to facilitate comprehension. For instance, when
readers decode words automatically, they have more cognitive capacity to interpret and analyze
the meaning of the text (Samuels, 2006). Similarly, appropriate prosody helps in understanding
 Strategies to Improve English Reading Comprehension

the nuances and emotional undertones of a text, which are crucial for deeper comprehension
(Rasinski, 2004).
Improving reading fluency can significantly enhance reading comprehension. One
effective strategy for developing fluency is repeated reading, where students read the same text
multiple times until they achieve a high level of fluency. This practice helps in solidifying word
recognition and improving reading speed, which in turn frees up cognitive resources for
comprehension (Therrien, 2004). Additionally, guided oral reading, where teachers or peers
provide immediate feedback and support, can also promote fluency and comprehension
(National Reading Panel, 2000).
Fluency training should be integrated with comprehension instruction to maximize its
benefits. For example, incorporating activities that emphasize both fluency and
comprehension, such as paired reading or performance reading (where students read aloud to
an audience), can help students practice fluent reading while simultaneously engaging with the
text on a deeper level (Kuhn & Stahl, 2003). Moreover, selecting texts that are at the
appropriate level of difficulty is essential, as texts that are too challenging can hinder fluency
development and comprehension.
The relationship between reading fluency and comprehension underscores the
importance of holistic reading instruction. By addressing fluency, educators can help students
not only read more smoothly but also understand and enjoy texts more fully. This dual focus
aligns with the broader goal of the research on strategies to improve English reading
comprehension, as it highlights the interconnectedness of different reading skills and the need
for comprehensive instructional approaches.
Reading fluency is integral to reading comprehension. Strategies that enhance fluency,
such as repeated reading and guided oral reading, contribute to better comprehension by
allowing readers to allocate more cognitive resources to understanding the text. Integrating
fluency training with comprehension activities ensures that students develop the skills
necessary for proficient and meaningful reading.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

From the results and discussions on strategies to improve English reading
comprehension, it can be concluded that using interactive techniques, vocabulary acquisition,
prior knowledge activation, and reading fluency are crucial in enriching students' ability to
comprehend texts. Techniques such as group discussions, role-playing, peer teaching, and
guided reading sessions foster active student engagement, while vocabulary acquisition and

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prior knowledge activation help connect new information with existing knowledge. Reading
fluency, on the other hand, enables students to focus on comprehending texts comprehensively.
Practical recommendations include integrated learning approaches, teacher professional
development, ongoing assessment, parental involvement, and innovation in educational
technology, all aimed at enhancing students' overall and sustained reading comprehension
abilities.

ACKNOWLEDGMENT
The author would like to express sincere gratitude to all individuals who have
contributed to this research on strategies to improve English reading comprehension. Special
thanks to the academic advisor for guidance and support throughout this study. The author is
also thankful to the participants who generously shared their time and insights. Additionally,
the author acknowledges the valuable contributions of researchers whose work laid the
foundation for this study. This research would not have been possible without their dedication
and expertise.

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