THE USE OF RAP STRATEGY TO IMPROVE READING COMPREHENSION OF THE SEVENTH GRADE STUDENTS OF SMPN 1 UBUD IN ACADEMIC YEAR 2024/2025

Reading comprehension is a vital skill in English education, yet many students struggle with it due to limited strategies and low engagement. This classroom action research aimed to determine the effectiveness of the RAP (Read, Ask, Put) strategy in improving the reading comprehension of seventh-grade students at SMP Negeri 1 Ubud. The study involved 43 students from Class VII H during the 2024/2025 academic year and employed two research cycles. Data collection instruments included pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires. The findings showed significant improvements in students' reading comprehension across general information, specific details, textual meaning, and references. The mean scores increased from 50.20 in the pre-cycle to 72.93 in Cycle I and 88.67 in Cycle II. Additionally, 93% of the students achieved the minimum passing grade by the end of Cycle II. Questionnaire responses indicated positive feedback, with 65.62% of students strongly agreeing that the RAP strategy effectively supported their learning. The results confirmed that the RAP strategy is a practical and effective approach to enhancing reading comprehension, providing a structured framework that encourages active student engagement and critical thinking. This study contributes valuable insights for educators aiming to improve reading skills through innovative teaching strategies.