Elementary Education Commons^™

An Exploration Of The Results Of Class Continuance From Kindergarten Through The First Grade, Georgann Marie Howie

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this study is the comparison of two different ways of grouping primary-level children and their teachers across grade levels. The two ways compared are the "class continuance" model, which is the maintenance of a structured same-age "family of learners" through the primary years, and the traditional practice of reassigning children and teachers to new classroom groups each year. Areas of comparison are the children's social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Nineteen children who remained with the same teacher during their kindergarten year and first grade were compared with 19 other children who were regrouped after finishing their kindergarten …

Direct Instruction, Strategic Reading And Third Grade Reading Comprehension, Patricia N. Guy

All Graduate Projects

A review of current research concernmg reading comprehension revealed a perspective of reading as a constructive, interactive process. A strategic approach to reading comprehension is compatible with this view. It was concluded from the review of literature that comprehension monitoring strategies could be taught with direct instruction. A set of comprehension instructional materials was developed which integrated direct instructional methods and research based reading strategies into the district adopted basal reading program. Conclusions are discussed and recommendations made.

Literature-Based Social Studies Learning Activities For First Grade Students In The Selah School District, Selah, Washington, Bonnie D. Isom

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop literaturebased social studies learning activities to be used with first grade students in the Selah School District. To accomplish this purpose, literature-based social studies learning activities for first grade students were gathered and developed for inclusion in a teacher resource packet. Appropriately used, children's literature can enhance learning in social studies and lead to increased teacher effectiveness.

Developing In-Class Activities To Support First-Second Grade Literature Instruction, Trina Danette Miller

All Graduate Projects

Literature-based activities were developed in the curriculum areas of Social Studies and Mathematics to be used with the district's adopted literature book program. A district survey indicated a strong interest in these two curriculum areas. This project will provide teachers with activities that support literature instruction in a learning center environment. The activities also help students to self-select a book of interest and to become actively involved in learning center activities that support the books of choice, plus increase their interest and comprehension.

The Reading And Writing Connection, Leona G. Morton

All Graduate Projects

Many children are graduating from school lacking skills in writing. This project reviews the literature in order to establish a theoretical justification for improving writing through reading. Using materials from the classroom and library, activities are presented that emphasize writing as well as reading. Some writing activities will be presented before reading and some writing activities will be presented after reading. Thus each activity will reflect the reading/writing connection, and create a basis from which writing should improve.

Hispanic Cultural Activities In The Social Studies Curriculum For Grades 4-5, Janell Ann Ramos

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to integrate Hispanic cultural activities into a Social Studies curriculum using student learning objectives for grades four and five. Six cultural activities were designed and implemented. An informal evaluation of the activities as they related to areas of multicultural education was included. This project demonstrated that Hispanic cultural activities could be successfully integrated into an otherwise monocultural environment, and through this integration positive changes in attitudes and behaviors of all students could be achieved.

Cedar River Mini-School, Judy Anne Rene

All Graduate Projects

A mini-school was set up in Cedar River Elementary School in Maple Valley, Washington. The mini-school will keep the same students and teachers together for a three-year period of time. There will be a fourth, fifth, and sixth grade classroom, each with its own teacher. Research suggests that students in small schools perceive a closer, warmer relationship with their teachers, fellow students and other adults and a stronger connection with the school. This project presents a justification for and a description of the mini-school. The only conclusions reached come from the development of the mini-school, not in an evaluation of …

A Comparison Of Research On The Efficacy Of Workbooks/Worksheets And The Practices Of Primary Teachers, Carol Louise Sippola

All Graduate Projects

Primary grade teachers were surveyed regarding their beliefs and practices in the use of basal reader workbooks and worksheets. These beliefs and practices were compared to theory and research evidence on the use and efficacy of basal reader workbooks and worksheets. Eighty returned questionnaires revealed that participants found workbooks worksheets useful and believed in their contribution to reading achievement. However, only 17% of reading instructional time was spent completing workbooks and worksheets.

Corss-Age Tutoring Program, Velma Jean Thompson

All Graduate Projects

This master's project provided a teachers~ handbook to assist in establishing a cross-age tutoring program. In addition to a philosophy statement and a review of the literature, this project also .provided forms for implementing the program and materials for training the tutors. This manual was prepared for use in an elementary school setting and contains a step-by-step approach to establish a cross-age tutoring program.

Increasing Reading Fluency In Students With Reading Difficulty, Kathryn Balabanis Peabody

All Graduate Projects

Four methods designed to increase reading fluency were employed in a primary level Special Education resource room. The methods were implemented in accordance with the theory and research regarding reading fluency. Each of the four methods effectively increased the students' ability to read fluently. However, the implementation of these methods varied in cost and time.

A Phonics And Whole Language Synthesis, Anne I. Allsworth

All Graduate Projects

The debate among phonics instruction and the whole language approach and the research supporting a balanced approach were examined. High utility phonics generalizations were identified from the literature. Those high utility phonics generalizations that were appropriate for the primary grades were applied to the vocabulary of a set of whole language readers. Lessons and activities were developed to integrate phonics instruction with the whole language materials for first grade students. Implications for further research and teacher training were discussed.

A Guide For Creating A School-Wide Advocacy Program, Theresa Dawn Chickering

All Graduate Projects

This project introduces a philosophy and rationale for creating and developing a positive adult influence on elementary school students. Research clearly illustrates the desirable impact a caring adult relationship can have on a child. The study addresses the importance of, development of, and reasons why a school should implement a structured student/adult focused plan. The roles of the advocate and child centered activities are explored.

Using Children's Literature To Teach Reading Comprehension And Written Language Skills To Elementary Students, Simona Sue Frank

All Graduate Projects

Literature-based instructional strategies for teaching reading comprehension and written language skills were studied. Evidence from the review of literature indicates that trade books motivate students to develop: critical thinking, comprehension, expanded vocabulary, knowledge of grammatical and literary devices along with enrichment of written language skills. Children's literature has proved to be an excellent vehicle for combining reading, writing and literature. Implications for literature-based instruction are discussed.

Bridging The Gap Between Generations: An Intergenerational Handbook For An Elementary School And Senior Citizens, Karla Jane Hansen

All Graduate Projects

Intergenerational programs are designed to bridge the generation gap and encourage the development of positive attitudes between the young and the old. T.hrough implementing intergenerational programs in the schools of today, students gain an understanding of the aging process, seniors in the community participate in a life satisfying activity, and school and community relations increase. To facilitate the implementation of intergenerational programs in the schools, a handbook was developed which outlines the process and procedures for a successful program.

An Inservice Program For The Training Of Instructional Paraprofessionals And Classroom Teachers, Debra Renee Helm

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project was to develop an inservice program to increase the job related skills of paraprofessional classroom assistants and the human management and supervision skills of the classroom teachers with whom they work. To accomplish this purpose, the inservice training needs of class-size paraprofessionals and the classroom teachers were studied. An inservice training program was developed and implemented with twelve class-size paraprofessionals and twelve supervising teachers from selected elementary schools in the Auburn School District. The results of the program showed that the increased use of paraprofessionals in instructional roles creates significant need for inservice training for …

Emerging Practices In K-6 Multimedia Methods Of Instruction In The Bethel School District, Glenn E. Malone

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to assess and describB the conditions and practices in the Bethel School District's elementary schools with regard to the use of a multimedia approach to instruction. A sample of the 260 classroom teachers, 13 principals, and 13 learning resource center specialists in the Bethel School District's 13 elementary schools (K-6) were surveyed using questionnaires covering the implementation of multimedia methods of instruction. The results showed current multimedia methods of instruction are rare in the elementary classrooms of the Bethel School District because of a lack of technological inservice and current multimedia hardware.

Activities For Teaching Letter Identification, A. Kristin Seibel

All Graduate Projects

The focus of this project was to compile and design research based letter identification activities. Emphasis was placed on the highly confusable letters "b-d", "p-q", and "n-u". The activities were for use in the first grade curriculum. Learning objectives were stated for each activity. The activities, utilizing a variety of materials, were chosen and designed for hands-on application. Needed materials were listed, directions and patterns for construction were included, directions for use were provided, and classroom management was suggested. Use of the activities was divided into three parts: whole group introduction, guided practice, and small group activities.

Teaching Comprehension By Incorporating Story Grammar Into A Drta Lesson Format, Sharon Kay Neal

All Graduate Projects

This project presents a teaching procedure which should improve primarylevel reading comprehension. This procedure combines a framework of story grammar as a guide for implementing the Directed Reading Thinking Activity (DRTA) lesson format. Literature is reviewed which illustrates the effectiveness of story grammar when used to teach comprehension, and describes the effectiveness of DRTA to promote active comprehension. By combining both story grammar and DRTA, a procedure is developed and ten example lessons are produced.

Teaching Learning Strategies In Sixth Grade Social Studies Classrooms, Kristine Rae Bowen

All Graduate Projects

This project introduced four learning strategies using the sixth grade social studies textbook, The World (Cangemi, 1986) as a framework to enhance reading comprehension. The strategies were selected because they: activated background knowledge, set a purpose, and encouraged active thinking while reading. The project explained each strategy, demonstrated how each could be implemented to promote active comprehension in a content area text, and developed lessons to teach students to incorporate the strategy while reading a social studies textbook.

A Handbook For Teaching Journal Writing, Kindergarten Through Third Grade, Linda Rae Donofrio

All Graduate Projects

This masters project provided a teachers' manual for use by teachers who want to establish a journal writing program. It was intended for teachers of grades kindergarten through third grade. In addition to the teachers' manual, this project also provided an overview of the literature of journal writing as part of a language arts program. Examples of students' journal entries were also included. The manual itself was prepared for use in a suburban, middle class school district and it contains a step-by-step approach to establishing a journal program.

Achievement Gains And Losses Of Integrated 5th Grade Resource Room Students: Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School, Yakima School District, 1989-1990, Patricia F. Kincheloe

All Graduate Projects

The achievement gains and losses of integrated 5th grade resource room students at Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School in the Yakima School District were studied. Nine resource room students were pre and post tested for achievement in reading, spelling, and mathematics. Teaching methods included cooperative learning, small and large group instruction, and peer tutoring. The results showed support for the integration of learning disabled students into a whole language, cooperative learning, regular education environment.

My Writing Source (Mí Fuent De Escritura), Guadalupe Segura Johnson

All Graduate Projects

The project provides a handbook of Spanish creative writing activities. It is to be used by third grade Spanish-speaking students to help inspire their creativity. The handbook consists of journal writing, sequence and write, draw and write, cartoons, story starters and shape stories. The review of literature helps to explain the importance of writing and discusses the role of the teacher. The activities are varied to allow the children to reach the essence of the creative writing process.

The Use Of Volunteers In The Implementation Of A Primary Reading Program, Lynnaie Wright

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this project is to supply activities and materials to classroom teachers in a practical and useful manner that will help in utilizing volunteers as reading tutors in the classroom. This project is a compilation of Information gathered from a review of literature based on volunteer tutoring. Programs that have utilized volunteers are studied. Sources for recruiting volunteers, management strategies for supervising volunteers, training of volunteers, and suggestions for retaining volunteers are included in this project.

A Handbook For Elementary Students And Parents, G. Joel Aune

All Graduate Projects

This project presents the development of a handbook for the parents and students of Vale Elementary School in Cashmere, Washington. The handbook was designed in response to a specific recommendation that surfaced during the Cashmere School District self study process which occurred during the 1988-89 school year. This handbook was designed to both define the policies and procedures of Vale Elementary School, and communicate those policies and procedures to parents and students. The handbook was developed with input from the parents and staff of Vale Elementary School. Handbooks from other elementary schools in central Washington were also consulted in the …

Student Support: A K-6 At-Risk Program Model, Patricia Arthaud

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was to identify priority components and measurement standards of an effective K-6 At-Risk Program, then develop a resource guide for At-Risk program managers. A survey was sent to the Washington school districts with at-risk programs in place, as identified by the "Student Retention and Retrieval Program" handbook issued by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. The survey was successful in helping identify the most effective program components: individual and small group counseling, classroom presentations with published materials, parent education, attendance monitoring, and peer/adult tutors. Evaluation standards vary according to program components and generally …

An Overview Of Bibliotherapy And Its Applications In The Elementary Classroom, Kerry Sue Abernathy

All Graduate Projects

Bibliotherapy has been used for many years as an aid to the healing process. The concept of using literature to promote mental health has been increasingly accepted as a valid therapeutic method in recent years. Bibliotherapy has, in the past, been used primarily with adults. This study will focus on recent developments to help children grow and develop a positive self-concept through literature. Book lists have been compiled from the many children's books available on the subjects of death and dying, illness, divorce, fears, handicaps, blended families, single parents, friendship, physical development, family relationships, attitudes and values, emotions and feelings, …

Incorporating Cooperative Learning Teams And Whole Language In The First Grade, Mary Elizabeth Berdine

All Graduate Projects

The first purpose of this project was to review current literature regarding whole language and cooperative learning. The second purpose of this project was the development of whole language, cooperative learning strategies and accompanying application lessons for use at the first grade level. Ten cooperative learning strategies and application lessons were developed utilizing a whole language approach. The lessons were centered around children's literature and focused on reading, writing, listening, and speaking activities that were whole, purposeful, and meaningful.

A Cooperative Approach To Writing A Curriculum Guide For Mathematics, Sara Nilson Bos

All Graduate Projects

This project involved writing a curriculum guide for grades kindergarten through six in the area of mathematics. This guide was developed using a cooperative approach including small groups of teachers representing several grade levels, as well as, the entire teaching staff. The process of developing the guide was important to this study as was the mathematics guide itself. Teachers were involved in selection of a mathematics curriculum, implementing the curriculum, evaluating and adapting the curriculum after one year of use, and writing the guide to accompany the program.

Integrated Social Studies Curriculum For The Combined Third, Fourth, And Fifth Grade Classroom, Kenneth Irwin Ecker

All Graduate Projects

A social studies curriculum was developed for use in a multi-grade classroom. The curriculum incorporates the learning objectives from each of the three grade levels in a format which can be presented simultaneously to students in all three grades, while directing a separate focus for each grade. The unique qualities and limitations of the multi-grade classroom were considered, and implications for the teacher are discussed. An informal pilot study assessed the useability and effectiveness of the curriculum.

A Description Of The Changing Role Of The Elementary Principal, Joe Martinez

All Graduate Projects

The purpose of this study was as follows:

a. to demonstrate the changing role of principals.

b. to describe the characteristics of this new role.

c. to contribute with research and literature in education.