As there are many definitions of reading, the writer tries to summarize them as follows; first, the object of reading activity is graphic symbols. Second, reading
is interpreting graphic symbols, which involves an interaction between the writer and the reader. Third, in reading process, there are two essential things involved,
i.e.: word recognition and comprehension. The first one refers to the ability to give meaning to a printed symbol. The second refers to the ability to understand
and apply the material. Reading has some advantages: 1 reading helps to learn and think in the
new language; 2 reading helps to build a better vocabulary; 3 reading makes learners comfort with the written English; 4 reading may be the only way to use
English if you live in a non-English-speaking country; 5 reading can help you if you plan to study in an English-speaking country.
2.5 English at Elementary School
Nowadays, English has been taught at elementary school as a local subject. Generally, English has been taught in grade IV to VI, but some elementary
schools hold it from grade I to VI.
Teaching English in Elementary School is a good start to continue learning English to further level. The function of teaching English at elementary school is
to introduce simple English as the first foreign language to the students. The teachers have to introduce the new language which is different from students’
mother tongue by giving clear explanation about the meaning of the new language.
The teacher is called a facilitator, it means the teacher could be placed in field with a group of students and transmits hisher knowledge of English to
students. To avoid difficulties that might be found in teaching, teacher has to make students interest with the subject especially English. Besides that, the
teacher has to describe how to learn English easily so increase their enthusiasm. The teacher also has to plan the lesson carefully, evaluate students’ progress
periodically and make every effort to sustain motivation of students by praising them and having friendly relationship with them.
According to School-based Curriculum 2006, English subject in the elementary school includes the ability of limited verbal communication in the
context of school. Four English aspects such as listening, speaking, reading and writing must be taught in elementary school. It is stated that the teaching scope of
the local content subject of English at Elementary School consists of simple expression and sentences about: 1 give respond to every instruction with action
or verbally; 2 make transactional and intrrpersonal conversation; 3 read short functional text announcement, invitation letter, etc; 4 write words or simple
expression thanking, greeting, etc. Learning English can not be separated from learning reading of that
language and reading is the first step of learning the language. As English has many words, the mastery of the vocabulary in reading helps the students in
mastering four skills.
2.6 Children as Language Learners
