Improving reading comprehension abilities among learners in upper Classes a selected Primary School in Rukungiri Municipality

Abstract

The study was carried out in one selected primary school in Rukungiri Municipality. The purpose of the study was to establish learner-based and school environment factors that can improve reading comprehension abilities and suggest guidelines for improving reading comprehension abilities among learners in upper primary classes in the selected primary school. Three objectives were used: to find out the learner-based factors that can improve reading comprehension abilities among learners in upper classes in the selected primary school; to explore the school environment factors that contribute to reading comprehension abilities among learners in upper classes in the selected primary school and to establish guidelines for improving reading comprehension abilities among learners in upper classes in the selected primary school. Purposive sampling technique was applied to select eight (8) learners in Primary Five and three (3) teachers of English language in upper primary. A case study research design was employed in a qualitative research approach. Data were collected through semistructured interviews and documentary review guides. Data were sorted, presented and analysed from codes to themes and to sub-themes. Findings showed that learner-based factors that can improve reading comprehension abilities include: learners’ vocabulary, learners’ attitude towards reading comprehension and learners’ competence in their mother tongue. Whereas school environment factors that contribute to reading comprehension are: classroom environment, class size, reading materials, and reading time. Suggested guidelines for improving reading comprehension include: timetabling reading comprehension lessons, rewarding learners, provision of adequate reading materials and using appropriate teaching methodology. The study concluded that learners in the selected primary school can do better on their reading comprehension abilities through exploitation of massive wealth in their vocabulary, changing their attitude towards reading comprehension, and being competent in their mother tongue; the school environment also influences learners’ reading comprehension abilities and diverse guidelines were also suggested to rectify the situation. It was recommended that practising English speaking through speaking sessions like in debating, conversations, drama, storytelling and group discussions among others can improve reading comprehension abilities among learners.