READING COMPREHENSION SKILLS

Abstract

Reading comprehension is the primary goal of the reading process; it is not merely the recognition of written symbols and the pronunciation of words, but rather the skill of perceiving both the explicit and implicit meanings of texts. Hence, the importance of reading comprehension emerges as a mental process in which multiple elements overlap. Consequently, reading comprehension progresses through various levels that allow the reader to read the text, understand its embedded ideas, analyze them, predict outcomes, and distinguish between facts and opinions. This research aims to identify reading comprehension, its skills, and its importance in education, as well as to understand its role in developing the mental and linguistic abilities of learners. The two researchers adopted the descriptive analytical approach by reviewing educational studies and research that addressed reading comprehension. The research concluded that reading comprehension is indispensable, not only in reading but also in other academic subjects. This contributes to raising the learner's linguistic level, providing them with ideas and information, and applying them in their life. Due to the importance of reading comprehension, focus should be placed on developing and enhancing its skills across all educational stages.