The Effects of Reading Chunking on the Reading Comprehension Skills of Junior High School Students with Different Dominant Multiple Intelligences

There are currently significant efforts underway to address the issues of reading comprehension. Reading chunking has been found to be an effective strategy, although studies provide only limited information. This study surveyed the effects of reading chunking on the reading comprehension of junior high students with different dominant multiple intelligences. The number of respondents composing two sections, one controlled group and one experimental group, in which data collection will be observed in a Face-to-face classroom setting. Using purposive sampling and a mixed-method research design, the participants, 60 Grade 8 students from St. Therese Academy, in Iligan City were assessed utilizing pretest-posttest comparison groups and qualitative focus groups. The study made use of the Evaluative/Critical Reading Comprehension (E/CRC) test, Inferential Reading Comprehension (IRC) test, and Literal Reading Comprehension (LRC) test to measure initial comprehension levels. The dominant intelligences were identified using advisers’ inventory records. Analysis showed average comprehension levels of the students, with a significant portion in the low evaluative category. Dominant intelligences found were bodily-kinesthetic, verbal-linguistic, and logical-mathematical. Students using reading chunking significantly improved in all three reading comprehension skills, namely: literal, inferential, and evaluative skills. The reading chunking technique proved effective, showing statistically significant differences in gain scores between control and experimental groups. Students reported that chunking improved focus, retention, comprehension, and reduced cognitive load and anxiety. The study concluded that reading chunking is a powerful tool for improving comprehension, particularly for students with diverse intelligences, and should be considered a vital strategy in educational practices. Significantly, this study recommended the integration of reading chunking into various subjects to help improve students' comprehension skills consistently.