Graduate Research Papers

Availability

Open Access Graduate Research Paper

Keywords

Reading--Direct instruction approach; Language experience approach in education; Direct instruction;

Abstract

Though differences between whole language and explicit instruction theories and research may seem irreconcilable, a growing body of research advocates an integration of the two. Combining the meaning-filled and student-empowering environment of whole language with needs-based explicit instruction is the solution most highly recommended. The unit letter activity is a teaching strategy for elementary-aged students which blends explicit instruction and whole language approaches. The activity involves student interaction with a thematic-related letter. The activity's purposes are two-fold : to convey information related to a theme chosen by the students, and to provide an authentic context for learning and practicing reading skills and strategies. Students read the letter for meaning-making purposes, discuss areas of interest, then practice using and implementing specific reading skills and strategies. The unit letter activity is completed by a final review of the letter's meaning, and a typed copy is sent home with the students to share with caregivers.

Year of Submission

1997

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Education

Department

Department of Curriculum and Instruction

First Advisor

Penny L. Beed

Comments

If you are the rightful copyright holder of this graduate research paper and wish to have it removed from the Open Access Collection, please submit a request to scholarworks@uni.edu and include clear identification of the work, preferably with URL.

Date Original

1997

Object Description

1 PDF file (43 pages)

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

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