Strengthening Reading Comprehension Through Reciprocal Teaching: An Approach to Solving Word Problems in Mathematics

Abstract

Reading comprehension is not only cornerstone of literacy but also a vital tool for success in Mathematics. Word problems, in particular, demand more than computation; they require learners to make sense of language, context, and meaning. Yet, many Filipino pupils continue to struggle in this area, especially when instruction is delivered in English.

This study aimed to explore how Reciprocal Teaching can enhance the reading comprehension and Mathematical word problem-solving skills of Grade 6 pupils, and to determine the extent to which these two abilities are connected.

A descriptive-experimental design was utilized with twelve (12) Grade 6 pupils from Manayday Elementary School, San Isidro, Abra, during School Year 2024–2025. Researcher-made tests, validated by experts, assessed four reading comprehension strategies—predicting, clarifying, questioning, and summarizing—as well as performance in solving mathematical word problems. Statistical tools such as mean, paired t-test, and ANOVA were applied to analyze the data.

 Before the intervention, pupils showed “Satisfactory” reading comprehension (overall mean = 83.50), excelling most in Questioning (M = 86.92) and Summarizing (M = 85.42). Their mathematical performance, however, fell “Below Expectations” (overall mean = 67.67). After implementing Reciprocal Teaching, performance rose to a “Satisfactory” level (overall mean = 81.08), with significant gains in non-routine fraction problems (mean gain = 36.67, t = 14.944, p < 0.001). A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.339) was also found between reading comprehension and mathematical performance, with Clarifying emerging as the strongest link (r = 0.498).

 Finally, the study demonstrates that Reciprocal Teaching can bridge the gap between reading and mathematics by equipping learners with strategies that deepen comprehension and strengthen problem-solving. Beyond improving test scores, it highlights the value of teaching approaches that nurture critical thinking and confidence—skills learners carry beyond the classroom.