Title:
HOME LITERACY ENVIRONMENTS AND THE READING LEVELS OF GRADE 2 LEARNERS: FOUNDATION FOR ENHANCED HOME READING PROGRAM

Authors:
Mildred Lerios Dumlao, Philippines

Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to determine the home literacy environment and the reading levels of Grade 2 learners, as perceived by reading facilitators in Palauig District, Schools Division of Zambales, during the School Year 2023-2024. A quantitative-descriptive research approach was utilized for this study. Data collection was conducted through a validated questionnaire. The questionnaire focused on various aspects of the home literacy environment, including reading materials, access to community resources, engagement in reading activities, and involvement in reading. Additionally, Filipino and English reading levels of learners were evaluated using CRLA-based reading levels. The results indicated that both learners and reading facilitators recognized the importance of HLEs, particularly in terms of reading materials, access to community resources, engagement in reading activities, and involvement in reading. However, the Filipino and English reading results of learners revealed a light refresher reading level, as per the CRLA-based assessment. Furthermore, there was no significant difference observed in the perception of HLEs between learners and reading facilitators across all dimensions. Additionally, there was a very low and non-significant correlation found between learners' HLEs and their CRLA-based reading levels, which persisted across various dimensions. The study concluded that there is a need for an enhanced program targeting specific areas identified for improvement in the HLEs and the reading levels of Grade 2 learners. Despite the recognition of the importance of HLEs by both learners and reading facilitators, the study highlighted the need for interventions to address the observed light refresher reading levels and the lack of significant correlation between HLEs and reading levels.