Cultivating a Love for Reading : Endorsing Engaging Practices to Encourage and Pressure to Boost a Learners’ Reading Comprehension and Critical Thinking

Abstract

Reading is a very important skill in the learning process. However, interest in reading among
students is often low. This study aims to apply interesting practices in reading activities with the
aim of cultivating a love of reading and improving students' reading comprehension and critical
thinking. The method used is a qualitative approach with observation, interview, and
documentation techniques. The study sample involved 75 elementary school students in grades 7-
9 at Nida Suksasat School, Thailand. Three interesting reading practices implemented are word
card games, batik activities, and chain message games. The results showed a significant
improvement in students' reading interest, reading comprehension, and critical thinking after
following these practices. However, there are challenges such as lack of letter recognition and lack
of motivation to learn in some students. This study concludes that the application of interesting
and meaningful reading practices can be an effective approach to foster a love of reading and
improve students' literacy and critical thinking skills.