Comics-Based Worktext for Reading Comprehension and Vocabulary Skills in World Literature

Abstract

This study explores the use of the self-designed comics to enhance the reading comprehension and vocabulary skills of the college students in world literature. Specifically, it identifies the literal, interpretative, creative and evaluative domains of reading comprehension and the context clues, word analysis, word structure and loan words elements of vocabulary skills. It also evaluates the acceptability and effectiveness of the comics through the objective, language used, graphic designs, usability, readability, knowledge ability, values discovery and additional information. The results showed significant differences between the reading comprehension and vocabulary skills pre-test and the posttest indicating improved level of skills with the use of comics as instructional material. However, the improved skills level is not correlated to the acceptability and effectiveness of the material. Furthermore, the use of comics deliver moral lesson to the readers while increasing the reading comprehension and vocabulary skills. The study finds it helpful to use the comics-based work-text in teaching world literature.

Keywords

• literature
• comics
• worktext
• reading comprehension
• vocabulary skills