improving reading ability using students’ texts ( a
classroom action research at the second year of SMK Farmasi Bina Farma Madiun
in 2007/2008 Academic Year)
Regina Bayu Nirmala Dewi, S890906211, Improving Reading Ability Using
Students’ Texts (A Classroom Action Research at the Second Year of SMK
Farmasi Bina Farma Madiun in 2007/2008 Academic Year). A Thesis.
Surakarta: Graduate School of English Department, Sebelas Maret University, 2008.
The objective of this research is to improve the students’ reading ability using
students’ texts. The problem revealed in this research is the low reading ability of
the second year of SMK Farmasi Bina Farma Madiun in 2007/2008 academic year.
The research was carried out at class 2C because they got the worst score of
English test among two other classes. They were the laziest, the noisiest and the
most inactive class. The procedures of the research consist of planning, action,
observation, and reflection. In collecting the data the researcher used questionnaire,
interview, observation, fields note, diaries, photographs, and test as the instruments.
Qualitative and quantitative analysis were used to analyze the data. To analyze the
qualitative data the researcher analyzed the improvement of the teaching learning
process by describing the result of questionnaire, interview, and observation. To
analyze the quantitative data the researcher applied a descriptive statistics. It was
used to compare the score and means of pretest and posttest. The reading tests were
in the form of pretest and posttest. The pretest was conducted in the pre research and
posttests were conducted at the end of cycle 1 and the end of cycle 2. The results of
the tests were used to know how well students comprehend the reading test.
The results of the research reveal that giving freedom to the students to
choose their own text can solve their problems in reading. Based on the observation,
interview, the result of tests, and supported with the writer’s diaries and photograph,
it can be seen: (1) the use of students’ texts can improve students’ motivation in
learning English, vocabulary mastery, and reading ability; (2) learning English
cooperatively can improve students’ bravery in using English; and (3) giving
attention to the students intensively in group or individually outside the class can
solve their problem in reading and create good atmosphere and close relationship
between teacher and students.
Based on the research findings above, at last the writer wants to propose
some suggestions to English teachers. First the teacher should give the students a
chance to choose what they want to learn. In reading class, the students were given a
chance to choose their own text which they want to read. Second, the teacher should
ask the students to learn English cooperatively. Third, the teacher should give their
time to guide the students individually
