Exploring the Students' Difficulties in Understanding Reading Texts at the Tenth Grade of Smk Syabilirosyad NW Semaya in Academic Year 2022/2023
Keywords:
Students’ Difficulties, Reading TextAbstract
This study aims to investigate the difficulties faced by first-year students at SMK Syabilirrosyad NW Semaya in understanding reading texts. The research adopts a descriptive design to identify and analyze the specific challenges students encounter in comprehending reading materials. The population of this study consists of 30 first-year students, selected based on their active participation in English lessons. Data were collected through two main techniques: multiple-choice tests and interviews. The multiple-choice test consisted of 20 items, assessing students' ability to comprehend vocabulary, grammar, and the main ideas in reading texts. Interviews were conducted to further explore the factors contributing to their difficulties. The data analysis involved assigning scores to students' responses, with correct answers receiving 5 points and incorrect answers receiving 0. The results showed that 38% of the students struggled with vocabulary, while 62% had difficulties with grammar. Interviews revealed that the lack of specific reading materials at the school, along with limited understanding of vocabulary and grammar, were major factors contributing to these challenges. The study concludes that the students at SMK Syabilirrosyad NW Semaya face significant obstacles in reading comprehension, and recommends improvements in teaching practices, such as providing more diverse reading materials and enhancing students' understanding of key language components.
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