THE EFFECT OF THE LET’S READ ASIA APPLICATION ON ENHANCING STUDENTS’ ENGLISH READING ABILITY ON PAKET B AT PKBM MEKAR TEGAL IN THE ACADEMIC YEAR 2024/2025

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of the Let’s Read Asia application in improving students' English reading abilities, particularly focusing on descriptive texts. The research was conducted at PKBM Mekar Tegal, involving seventh-grade Paket B students during the academic year 2024/2025. A quasi-experimental design was used, with one experimental group using the application and a control group receiving traditional teaching methods. Pre-tests and post-tests were conducted to assess reading abilities, and the data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. The results revealed a significant improvement in the experimental group’s reading skills, with a mean post-test score of 78.00 compared to the control group's score of 61.50. The paired sample t-test results indicated statistical significance (p < 0.001), confirming that the Let’s Read Asia application positively impacted students' motivation, vocabulary acquisition, and reading comprehension. The findings suggest that the application is an effective tool for enhancing English reading skills in non-formal education settings