Extending literacy through children's literature in a grade four classroom

Hayden, Marian (1991) Extending literacy through children's literature in a grade four classroom. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The present study was concerned with developing and implementing a literature programme to promote the reading and writing abilities of the children in a Grade 4 classroom. The study also investigated any change in the attitudes of the children toward reading and writing as a result of the programme. -- The 14 week study consisted of exposing the 29 children, on a daily basis, to fine children's literature in the form of read-aloud sessions and independent reading periods. Time was also provided daily for individual response to the literature selections in the form of art, drama or creative writing, with an emphasis on publishing. -- Evaluation of the study was based on standardized reading tests administered both before and after the study, evaluation according to specific criteria of the students' creative writing produced throughout the study, attitude questionnaires administered both before and after the study, and observations of the investigator who was also the teacher. -- The results of the Gates MacGinitie Reading Tests revealed mean gains of 0.7 in vocabulary and 0.9 in comprehension both of which were greater than expected. Evaluation of the children's written expression indicated growth, especially in the areas of language and story structure. The attitude questionnaires administered revealed increases in positive attitude toward both reading and writing. The examination of 2 case studies provided further insights into the effectiveness of the literature programme. -- Based on these results, it was concluded that a literature programme such as the one described in the present study would not only improve children's reading and writing abilities but would also increase their desire to read and write.

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