IMPACT OF POOR READING CULTURE ON THE PERFORMANCE OF STUDENT IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE AMONG SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN ATIBA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF OYO STATE

Abstract This study examines the impact of poor reading culture on the performance of students in English Language among senior secondary school students in Atiba Local Government Area of Oyo State. The research was motivated by the noticeable decline in students' proficiency and academic achievement in English, which has been partly attributed to a lack of consistent and meaningful reading habits. A descriptive survey design was employed, and data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to selected students and across various secondary schools in the area. Findings revealed that students exhibit low interest in reading due to several factors, including the influence of digital media, inadequate access to reading materials, poor parental involvement, and lack of effective reading programs in schools. The study further showed a strong correlation between poor reading culture and students' low performance in key areas of English Language, such as comprehension, vocabulary development, grammar, and writing skills. The study concludes that unless proactive measures are taken to revive and sustain students’ interest in reading, their performance in English will continue to suffer. It recommends the improvement of school libraries, active involvement of parents, integration of reading programs into the school curriculum, and the use of digital tools to enhance reading engagement. These measures, if implemented, could significantly enhance students’ academic performance in English and contribute to their overall educational success.