Education Commons^™

The Impact Of An Interactive Technology Application On Elementary Student Achievement In Fractions., Shannon M. Stone

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Data reported locally and nationally show that students struggle to understand fractional concepts. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of an interactive tablet application on student achievement in fractions. Students in grades three through five at the treatment school worked with an interactive tablet application designed to facilitate student construction of fractions knowledge. The interactive tablet application is an open-platform that allowed teachers the autonomy to work with the researcher to load their desired content activities on the topic of fractions to develop instructional sessions for students. Students worked independently during the math workshop to complete …

Differentiation Revealed: A Multiple-Methods Qualitative Study On The Implementation Of Differentiated Instruction In A Mixed-Ability Elementary Classroom, Curtis James Cunningham

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Differentiated instruction as a philosophical approach to teaching has been around for decades. In recent weeks differentiation has come under fire as being an approach to teaching that is simply too difficult for teachers to implement. While teachers may attend a workshop or take a graduate class on the topic of differentiation and choose not to embrace the philosophy, there are also teachers who have successfully implemented differentiation. The argument against differentiation is based on the amount of effort required to simultaneously implement all components of differentiation.

To address these concerns the following question provided guidance for the present multi-method …

Teaching Third-Grade Writing Using The Self-Regulated Strategy Development Model, Ellen Korver

Master of Education Program Theses

Writing is a self-directed activity that involves the intelligent use of a variety of mental operations and skills. Christian teachers want their students to be able to write well because it enables them not only to examine God’s world for themselves, but also to communicate with others. This communication is essential in many areas of modern life. However, research studies show that many students have only partially mastered writing skills. In this study, the effectiveness of an instructional mode, the Self-Regulated Strategy Development (SRSD) model, was examined in order to determine if its implementation would have a positive effect on …

"She Stands For Freedom": A Thematic Unit Plan For 4th And 5th Graders, Jeremiah Sammons

Undergraduate University Honors Capstones

According to researchers such as Bell (1984) and Fisher (1991), few activities are more powerful for developing historical empathy than engaging students in role-play. This thematic unit plan for fourth and fifth grade children integrates the learning objectives and skills required by the Common Core standards. It consists of a two-act play, The Golden Door, and sample lesson plans that include assessments. Beginning with the Statue of Liberty, the original theatrical work will introduce numerous historical figures as well as interesting historical tidbits, and familiarize students with famous women (as opposed to men), while also allowing teachers an opportunity to …

"An Easy Switch": A Descriptive Case Study Exploring The Shift Toward Informational Text Accompanying The Implementation Of Common Core State Standards In Five Primary Classrooms, Heather Denise Kindall

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this descriptive case study was to discover how the newly implemented Common Core State Standards (CCSS) may have changed teachers' practices and philosophies regarding literacy instruction and to determine which teaching strategies were being presented in regard to informational text in the studied Kindergarten through second grade classrooms.

The research was conducted in five classrooms within one elementary school in the mid-Southern United States. The study design involved semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and teacher-reported lesson plans over a fourteen week data collection period. The aim of this research was to portray a vivid description of the implementation …

Rediscovering The Garden In Kindergarten: Towards A Holistic Approach, Beth R. Bleeker

Master of Education Program Theses

Dress-up clothes, wooden blocks, and art easels are seemingly collecting dust in the back closets of many of today’s kindergarten classrooms. Where once creativity, imagination, and exploration were vividly expressed during times of free play, the youngest of students in many of today’s education system are trading in their toys for textbooks. This was not the vision of Friedrich Froebel (1782-1852), the German philosopher who provided the foundation and validity of play as a vehicle for learning within the establishment of the kindergarten movement. The 21st century kindergarten has evolved from nurturing the child’s sense of play towards a stronger …

Self-Regulated Learning And Mathematics Achievement In A Fourth Grade Classroom, Dawn Eliserio

Master of Education Program Theses

This research examines the relationship between self-regulated learning and mathematics achievement. The sample included 10 students enrolled in fourth grade at a small, private elementary school in the Midwest. During the third quarter of the school year, students were taught methods of learning mathematics through self-regulation. The grades were recorded before the implementation at the conclusion of the second quarter and again at the conclusion of the third quarter once self-regulation was implemented. A t-test was used to compare the mathematics scores. There was no significant difference between the second and third quarter mathematics grades. This is an important result …

Levels Of Line Graph Question Interpretation With Intermediate Elementary Students Of Varying Scientific And Mathematical Knowle, Stacy Keller

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This study examined how intermediate elementary students' mathematics and science background knowledge affected their interpretation of line graphs and how their interpretations were affected by graph question levels. A purposive sample of 14 6th-grade students engaged in think aloud interviews (Ericsson & Simon, 1993) while completing an excerpted Test of Graphing in Science (TOGS) (McKenzie & Padilla, 1986). Hand gestures were video recorded. Student performance on the TOGS was assessed using an assessment rubric created from previously cited factors affecting students' graphing ability. Factors were categorized using Bertin's (1983) three graph question levels. The assessment rubric was validated by Padilla …

Gradual Release Of Responsibility Approach In Developing Synthesis In Primary-Aged Children, Michelle Te Grootenhuis

Master of Education Program Theses

This action research explored the effects of using the gradual release of responsibility instructional method (Harvey and Goudvis, 2000) to improve the synthesis abilities of fourteen second grade students who attend a small rural school. The specific treatment involved the students in modeled, shared, guided, and independent practice of the synthesis strategy using authentic children's literature. The DRA2 interpretation scores of the students were compared before and after the treatment. The results showed that twelve of the students scored within the independent or advanced level, one student improved from frustration to instructional level, and one student remained at the frustration …

Study Of The Effects Of A Buddy Reading Program On The Reading Achievement And Attitudes Of Kindergarten And Grade Seven Students At Abbotsford Christian School, Heritage Campus, Susan M. Dykshoorn

Master of Education Program Theses

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of a Buddy Reading Program on reading levels and attitudes towards reading. A Buddy Reading Program is a type of peertutoring strategy that can be used across various grade levels spanning from kindergarten through grade 12. As defined in this project, a Buddy Reading Program pairs older students with younger students in a language arts setting. The older students prepare a short reading lesson and tutor the younger students in hopes of improving reading success.

This study took place using a control group of one kindergarten class of 18 students …

Using Teacher Instructional Time More Efficiently Through The Use Of Madminute Software: A Tool For Teaching Elementary Children Basic Mathematics Facts, Jeremy Tinsley

Master of Education Program Theses

Time constraints often force elementary mathematics teachers to teach only from the textbook and sacrifice conceptual, hands-on approaches to mathematics instruction. This study explores the potential time-saving benefits of using MadMinute computer software to teach elementary students basic mathematics facts. Data was collected by administering pretests and posttests to participating students, and through time logs kept by participating teachers. Results showed that teachers who used MadMinute software saved a mean of 20.4 minutes of instructional time per day, compared to teachers who used traditional methods of mathematics facts instruction. Students receiving traditional methods of instruction had higher levels of growth, …

Classwide Peer Tutoring With Or Without Competitive Reinforcement: Impact On Academic Growth And Intrinsic Interest, Dale R. De Weerd

Master of Education Program Theses

This study examined the effects of Classwide Peer Tutoring on students' academic gains and intrinsic interest in two fourth-grade math classes under two conditions-c-with competitive reinforcement (CWPT + CR) and without competitive reinforcement (CWPT - CR). Extending spelling CWPT research of C. C. Cheung and S. Winter (1999), this study utilized an adapted multiplication pretest and posttest and the Attitude Toward Mathematics Scale, developed by Peterson (1978). Study results showed a lack of statistical significance regarding group differences at posttest. However, due to traditional CWPT's impact on classroom atmosphere, peer perception, and learning focus, the investigator recommends eliminating competitive reinforcement …

Measuring The Environmental Attitudes Of Children In Grade 4: A Study In Clark County, Amir Khawaja

UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones

The purpose of this study was to examine whether there is an increased positive effect on children's attitude when they are taught about the environment in an outdoor/hands-on setting versus an indoor traditional classroom setting. The study focused on grade four students in the Clark County School District. Half of the group was comprised of students that were taught about the environment using traditional classroom learning materials while the other half consisted of students that were taught using the outdoor/hands-on approach. In order to test the results, the students were given a survey. The questionnaire created by Malkus and Musser …

Role Of Explicit Teaching Of Cognitive/Metacognitive Reading Strategies To Improve Reading Comprehension At The Elementary Level, Sheila R. Deboer

Master of Education Program Theses

This paper presents a summary of selected research on teaching cognitive and metacognitive reading strategies and their correlation to improved reading comprehension at the elementary level. It also reviews instructional programs, and describes implications for teaching. Study findings indicate that explicit teaching of cognitive/metacognitive reading strategies are effective in improving reading comprehension for students at the elementary level.

Extra-Curriculuar Leadership And Service Learning Program For Fifth Grade Students, Barbra Ann Muffett

All Graduate Projects

The design of leadership education for fifth grade students was studied. Through the review of literature it was found that leadership education should have a student-centered approach. Leadership education and service learning can be taught together because students can directly apply their leadership skills to an authentic situation. From the review of literature it was discovered that true service learning involves several key elements. The benefits of service learning, specifically for at-risk students are addressed.

Brain-Based Learning: Implications For The Elementary Classroom, Brenda Van Roekel

Master of Education Program Theses

Recent developments in neuroscience have enabled scientists to understand and image brain activity. Brain researchers are now more able than ever before to understand how the brain works, what affects the brain, and what implications these discoveries have for education. Based upon these discoveries new methods of teaching have been devised using the term, brain-based strategies or brain-based learning. This thesis examines some of the brain-based strategies embraced by leaders in this field. It will pay particular attention to the enriched environment, the effect of emotion on learning, and the concept of sensitive or critical periods. It will examine research …

Introducing A Foreign Language Experience Into The Elementary Curriculum: A Flex Curriculum Handbook, Deborah Michelle Doherty

All Graduate Projects

A handbook has been created to assist elementary educators integrating Spanish into their curriculum. Lesson plans, activities, and supplemental materials are developed based on The Standards for Foreign Language Leaming, recommended and published by the National Association of Foreign Language Teachers and are aligned to meet the Essential Academic Leaming Requirements (EALRs) adopted by The Washington State Commission on Student Leaming. Current literature and research involving the benefits of teaching foreign language to elementary children are studied.

The Importance Of Phonemic Awareness: Developing Phonemic Awareness In First Grade Students Through A Backpacking Program, Shannon Kaye Sanger

All Graduate Projects

The role of phonemic awareness in beginning reading acquisition was researched. Studies suggested that the presence of phonemic awareness in young children facilitates learning to read. Research also suggested a positive relationship between parental involvement and reading acquisition. A handbook containing activities designed for use in a backpacking program was created. The activities involve parents in developing phonemic awareness in their children. These activities are to be sent home with students and completed with the assistance of their parents. The handbook also contains assessments and instructions for teachers regarding the implementation of this backpacking program.

The Importance Of Phonemic Awareness In Initial Reading Acquisition And How You Can Support It In Your First Grade Classroom: A Handbook For Educators, Jan Pearson Golob

All Graduate Projects

The significance of phonemic awareness in initial reading acquisition was researched. The research suggests that those children without phonemic awareness will struggle with learning to read. A handbook for educators was created to compliment existing curriculum. This handbook contains songs and activities either extracted from or modeled after those that had already been field tested in many classrooms.

Going Beyong The Third Grade Science Kit: An Integrated Thematic Approach, Michele D. Wiederspohn

All Graduate Projects

A project has been developed to aid in the design of a third grade science program and/or to be used as a supplement to any existing third grade science curriculum. The project has been organized into fourteen lesson plans. Each lesson plan includes an overview of the lesson, student learning objectives matched to the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements, activities, a list of required materials, an outline of instruction, and the name of a trade book to compliment the lesson. Current literature and research regarding the topic of integrated curriculum were explored.

A Qualitative Study Of A Team-Teaching Classroom And A Traditional One-Teacher Classroom In An Elementary School Setting, Johnny D. Thompson

Electronic Theses and Dissertations

This study describes two heterogeneously grouped second-grade classrooms during the 1998-99 school year. One class featured collaborative team teaching, and the second class was taught by a traditional single teacher. There were 33 regular education students and nine at-risk students in the team classroom and 14 regular education students and eight at-risk students in the one-teacher classroom. One hundred three interviews were conducted with 21 students in the team classroom and 18 students in the one-teacher classroom, with 13 parents, with three teachers, and with the school principal. The researcher observed the two classes 61 times from September to May. …

An Integrated Emergent Literacy Curriculum For Primary Students, Katrina M. Clark

All Graduate Projects

A completely integrated reading curriculum has been developed for the primary classroom. The curriculum may be used in whole to cover all academic subjects or as a supplement to an already existing program. The main theme, interdependence, is sub divided into: home/family and farms. Any specific directions or copies of activities are included as well as a teacher reference list and a children's literature list. The Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements as interpreted for kindergarten are covered by use of this curriculum.

Effects Of Cooperative Learning Versus Direct Instruction And Independent Practice In A First Grade Mathematics Classroom, Andrea Wieringa

Master of Education Program Theses

This study investigated the effectiveness of cooperative learning versus direct instruction and individual practice in a first grade classroom when learning concepts about time. One classroom of 21 was divided into groups of three and worked and learned in cooperative groups. The other class of 21 was taught using direct instruction, and students completed assignments independently. An analysis of the post-test suggested that the cooperative group scored higher than the direct instruction group, although only two of the five sections of the test were significantly higher.

Effects Of Computer Assisted Instruction To Teach Word Recognition Skills To Grade Two Students, Wilma Kooistra

Master of Education Program Theses

The effects of using computer assisted instruction versus a more traditional approach to practice, i.e. flash cards and worksheets, to attain word recognition skills were investigated. A total of 20 students were rated on a pre-test and then assigned to one of two practice groups. The experimental group (10 students) practiced reading skills using Reader Rabbit II, a highly motivational drill and practice software program. The control group (10 students) practiced using worksheets and flash cards. When skills were compared at the end of the testing time, there was shown to be no statistically significant difference between the two modes …

Effects Of Social Skills Training On Kindergarten Students, Cindy Van Den Top

Master of Education Program Theses

The effects of direct instruction in the area of social skill development were investigated. Students in three classes (a total of 50 students) were rated on a checklist of appropriate kindergarten social skills by their teacher. Two classes (29 students) were then instructed in social skill development while one class was given no specific instruction. When social skills were compared at the end of the eight week instructional time, both the experimental and control groups had improved, with boys improving at a greater rate than girls overall.

Effects Of Keyboarding Skills On The Quality Of Writing Using A Word Processor For Composing, Jon S. Kroeze

Master of Education Program Theses

This study investigated the influence of keyboarding proficiency on writing quality. The participants were seventeen fifth graders in a small private school. One sample group participated in formal keyboarding instruction for seven weeks. The other sample group used the computers for the same seven week period but with other programs not related to improving keyboarding proficiency. Keyboarding tests were taken as a pre-test and post-test. Writing samples were taken as a pre-test and post-test and scored holistically. An analysis of the keyboarding pre-test and post-tests suggested that a significant improvement in keyboarding skills had developed for the group given formal …

Writing To Learn Writing, Dawn M. Williams

All Graduate Projects

The literature and research regarding writing to learn writing was explored. Data were presented to support teaching writing in a holistic process approach such as the Writing Workshop. Mini-lessons for use in sixth grade Writing Workshop were developed to use as models for additional lessons created by the author or others. Implications for using a Writing Workshop format were discussed.

Multimedia Prereading Strategies, Mary J. Wise

All Graduate Projects

Prereading activities are important in enabling students to comprehend and enjoy the books they read. Teachers are always in need of good prereading activities, and the increasing popularity of computers offers opportunities to fill this need, however, technology is not keeping up with educators' needs in this area. While there is an overwhelming quantity of commercially produced computer software programs, they are invariably generic in nature. No software relating to prereading strategies appears to be available. A CD containing multimedia prereading activities was produced to accompany a selected list of elementary level trade books. The CD is intended to be …

Prereading And Postreading Activities For Children's Multicultural Trade Books, Sandra Gail Beardsley

All Graduate Projects

A review of literature was completed to support the need for, and value of, using multicultural literature within the elementary classroom. The criteria for selecting multicultural literature was also reviewed. The project consisted of a booklist and prereading and postreading activities for twenty-five multicultural trade books. The purpose of the project was to heighten student's awareness of the multicultural community in which they live and appreciation of cultures throughout the world. The strategies and activities developed for these books were based on the whole language philosophy. The twenty-five trade books were divided into four themes: 1. Grandparents, 2. Folktales and …

Student Lessons To Enhance Reading Comprehension In The Social Studies Content Area, Dianne Marie Daily

All Graduate Projects

This project consists of lessons designed to increase reading comprehension of fifth grade students in the social studies content area. The lessons are developed based upon a review of research which indicates improved reading comprehension of expository text among students who are taught to use comprehension enhancing strategies. The activities include vocabulary development, text structure awareness, advance organizer usage, and study and reading guide strategy lessons. Additionally, a teacher's guide accompanies the lessons. These lessons are created specifically for use with the Civil War Unit entitled, "A Nation Divided," as found in Macmillan/Mcgraw-Hill's 5th grade social studies text entitled, United …