Navigating Phonics, Fluency, and Comprehension Instruction: Elementary Teachers' Experiences in English 4 in Public Elementary Schools of Reina Mercedes District, Schools Division of Isabela – Binarsang Elementary School

Authors

  • Elsa Joy Agbayani Northeastern College Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.64358/sih.v2i3.120

Keywords:

reading comprehension, phonics instruction, reading fluency, literacy instruction, Grade 4, qualitative study, elementary teachers

Abstract

Reading proficiency is fundamental to learners' academic success, yet many Filipino elementary learners continue to face challenges in phonics, reading fluency, and reading comprehension. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of Grade 4 English teachers in implementing literacy instruction in public elementary schools of Reina Mercedes District, Schools Division of Isabela, with Binarsang Elementary School as the research site. Specifically, the study examined teachers' instructional practices, challenges, coping strategies, and recommendations for improving literacy instruction. Ten Grade 4 English teachers were purposively selected as participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis and were analyzed using Braun and Clarke's Reflexive Thematic Analysis. The findings revealed six themes: (1) explicit phonics instruction as the foundation of reading, (2) guided and repeated reading to improve fluency, (3) interactive strategies for comprehension, (4) differentiated instruction for diverse learners, (5) teacher creativity in addressing instructional challenges, and (6) collaboration with parents and stakeholders to sustain literacy development. The study highlights the critical role of teachers' pedagogical expertise, adaptability, and reflective practice in strengthening reading instruction. The findings provide valuable implications for teacher professional development, curriculum enhancement, and school-based literacy programs in Philippine public elementary schools.

References

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Published

2026-08-08

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 3 (2026): Studies in Interdisciplinary Horizons

Section

Articles

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