Reading is a core component of standardized tests and a cornerstone of academic success, prompting schools in the basic education to invest in reading programs for elementary learners. This study investigates the reading levels of Grades 4 to 6 students, analyzes reading performance trends across grade levels and school districts, and proposes curriculum enhancements in school districts in Cebu City, Philippines. Utilizing a cross-sectional study design, reading proficiency data were analyzed using frequency distribution and chi-square tests. Results indicate an overall improvement in reading levels, with a higher percentage of students moving from Frustration to Instructional reading levels, particularly in the North District. However, ongoing difficulties exist in the South District, where many higher-grade students remain at the Frustration level. Gender analysis reveals that females tend to demonstrate higher reading levels compared to males, with the difference becoming more pronounced from Grade 5 onward. Targeted curriculum enhancements like reading intervention programs in Grade 4 may support struggling readers, while teachers may benefit from professional development on culturally responsive reading strategies to improve reading instruction and promote literacy outcomes across district schools.
Bacus et al. (Tue,) studied this question.