Teachers' Efforts to Increase Reading Interest in Grade IV Students of SD Negeri 091254 Batu Onom

Abstract

This study aims to describe teachers' efforts in increasing the reading interest of grade IV students at SD Negeri 091254 Batu Onom. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach. Data collection was carried out from July to September 2026 through observation, interviews, and documentation. The research informants consisted of grade IV teachers and ten students who were selected using purposive sampling techniques from a total of 17 students. The data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman model which included data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawn. The results of the study showed that teachers made various efforts to increase students' interest in reading, including getting used to reading activities before lesson, providing motivation and praise, forming small groups, implementing reading while playing, creating a comfortable classroom atmosphere, and paying special attention to students who were less interested in reading. Of the ten students who became informants, eight students (80%) stated that they liked to read, nine students (90%) stated that they were invited to read before learning, and all students (100%) stated that they received motivation from the teacher, participated in interesting reading activities, and felt comfortable during the reading activity. However, the implementation of these efforts still faces obstacles in the form of limited reading materials, the unavailability of reading corners in the classroom, and the presence of students who are less interested and not fluent in reading. This study concludes that teachers' efforts have supported the creation of a positive reading experience, but need to be strengthened through the provision of literacy facilities, the addition of diverse reading materials, and continuous assistance according to the needs of students.