Influencing Book Selections of Elementary Students
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Authors
Croy, Sandi P.
Issue Date
2002-04
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
book hook , Accelerated Reading program
Alternative Title
Abstract
The purpose of the research was to determine whether or not elementary students could
be influenced in their selection of books to read. The relative influence of exposure to a
"book hook" (a brief verbal description of a book) and the Accelerated Reading program
on what elementary students choose to read were the focus of the research. The research
project was conducted over a three week period of time and included 292 student
participants from grades three, four, and five and 27 faculty members.
This qualitative study included interview and surveys of both student and faculty
participants. Classes were randomly selected from the participating classes to either
receive the book hooks or not. All participating classes were asked to complete a survey
prioritizing a list of book titles in the order in which they might select to read the listed
books. The list included book hook titles, Accelerated Reader titles, and titles that were
neither. Findings suggest that students could be persuaded to choose a particular title
over others after having been exposed to a book hook. Findings also suggest that
participating in an Accelerated Reading program can influence what elementary school
children choose to read.
The results of the study were communicated to the learning community through a
meeting with teachers and administrators. The sharing of results with interested parties
generated additional ideas for improvement to the existing reading program. The overall
focus for this thesis was prompted by the desire to find ways to encourage students to
read books that are not designated as Accelerated Reader.
Description
Citation
Publisher
Valdosta State University
License
Copyright protected. Unauthorized reproduction or use beyond the exceptions granted by the Fair Use clause of U.S. Copyright law may violate federal law.