Date of Award
1-1-1992
Document Type
Dissertation - NSU Access Only
Degree Name
Doctor of Education
Department
Child and Youth Care Administration
Advisor
William Anderson
Keywords
Early Literacy Development, Language Experiences, Functions of Print, Whole Language, Literacy Strategies, Literacy Behaviors, Collaborative and Cooperative Learning, Thematic Role Play.
Abstract
A course of study was designed by the writer to enhance the effectiveness of the traditional third grade reader and workpack as instructional tools. The goal was to create, in the targeted third grade students, a familiarity with the purpose and function of varied print media available within the community, thereby creating a foundation upon which the students could base their understanding of the settings, themes, and experiences of the traditional third grace reader. The writer created a program that utilized varied print media and speakers from within the students' school and community environment. Classroom cooperative learning centers were established. A number of group activities and individual assignments were required. Family involvement was encouraged through: the broad scope of interactive homework assignments. The program has resulted in a target population with a heightened sense of achievement, enthusiasm and confidence. The children developed the means of visualizing the printed word. A connection of verbal interaction was developed between school and home. A collaborative setting generated the process of bringing meaning to the printed word. This group practice allowed students to transfer their verbal visualization strategies to the stories of the traditional third grade reader. The children demonstrated meaningful gains in their abilities to describe purposes and functions of varied print media.