Nurturing Proficient Young Readers: The Four-Legged Chair Approach to Holistic Reading Development

Abstract

The article presents a guideline for developing elementary students into "reading champions" using the "four-legged chair" concept, which aims to enhance holistic reading skills. It covers (1) building a strong foundation through activities that improve pronunciation and spelling, such as sound-letter matching games and using songs to teach sounds, (2) regular practice to build familiarity and improve reading ability, such as paired reading and keeping reading logs, (3) developing content comprehension through analysis and expression, like 5W1H questioning and drawing illustrations, and (4) fostering motivation with enjoyable activities, such as book-based drama and collecting leaves on the reading tree. This approach aligns with the context of Thairath Wittaya 102 School (Ban Ko Tao), which faces challenges in reading development, utilizing diverse activities and integrating other disciplines to create a comprehensive learning experience. The study found that applying the "four-legged chair" concept significantly improved students' reading skills, including pronunciation, content understanding, and a positive reading attitude, leading to students who are well-equipped for continuous and sustainable learning.