Term
Spring 2021
Capstone
Thesis
Degree Name
MALED
Primary Advisor/Dissertation Chair
Maggie Struck
Secondary Advisor/Reader One
Peggy Pruisner
Peer-Reviewer/Reader Two
Shawn Miller
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to improve engagement in a rural classroom by analyzing perspectives in relevant texts using a literature circle format. The literature reviewed in this study was centered on adolescent literacy, engagement, critical literacy, relevant texts, and literature circles.The study was conducted over an eight-week period with a small group of fifth-grade students; they selected their own text and read it together while utilizing a traditional literature circle format. The unique literature circle roles were designed to promote analysis of perspectives, critical literacy practices, and basic comprehension strategies. This mixed-methods case study utilized primary data from Likert-scale surveys and student interviews and secondary data from the researcher’s observations and reflections. The study analyzed student choice, relevant content, critical literacy, and collaborative discussions to measure engagement. The results suggest that students’ engagement improved when texts were relevant and connections were easily made between the text and the students’ lives. Additionally, the focus on silenced voices increased participants’ awareness and understanding of perspectives in grade-level texts.
Research Methodology
Case Study, Interview, Observation, Survey (attitude scale, opinion, questionnaire)
Keywords
Literacy, Reading, Engagement, Critical Literacy
Recommended Citation
Peters, Micah, "Analyzing Perspectives With Relevant Grade-level Texts To Improve Engagement In A Rural Fifth-grade Classroom" (2021). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations. 4524.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_all/4524
dc_type
text
dc_publisher
DigitalCommons@Hamline
dc_format
application/pdf
dc_source
School of Education Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations