FACILITATING EFFECTIVE AND SUCCESSFUL READING : THE TEACHER'S VITAL ROLE

Abstract

Reading holds the power to bring joy and enlightenment, unveiling the unknown and serving as a vital cognitive activity in today's information-driven society. As such, it is crucial for students to develop effective reading skills to participate fully in today's educated world. The act of reading not only liberates individuals from ignorance and superstition but also has the potential to reshape their thinking and lifestyle. Encouraging a culture of critical reading is essential for educators, as it goes beyond surface-level comprehension to analyze assumptions, inferences, and conclusions made by writers. Critical readers develop well-rounded skills applicable to various areas, including SQ3R techniques, multimedia utilization, browsing, and scanning by evaluating the accuracy, reliability, quality, and value of written content. While multiple approaches to fostering literacy exist, certain factors significantly impact its acquisition. Teachers play a pivotal role in overcoming these obstacles and ensuring that reading becomes accessible, effective, and successful for their students. Acting as the primary resource, teachers provide guidance, encouragement, and instruction, helping students develop their reading approaches. They introduce beginning readers to phonics, aiding in the correct pronunciation of letters and words, while also emphasizing proficient writing in early grades, as it directly correlates with reading skills. Additionally, teachers assist students in recognizing syllables and selecting appropriate reading materials based on age, time, and ability, acknowledging their responsibility in motivating and engaging students to become enthusiastic readers. Key elements in this process include critical reading, skimming and scanning techniques, SQ3R strategies, and the effective utilization of multimedia resources.