Literacy Integrated with Kindergarten Science: An Investigation of Impacts of Kindergarten Students Including Those At-risk for Learning Disabilities
by
 
Kurz, Leigh Ann, author.

Title
Literacy Integrated with Kindergarten Science: An Investigation of Impacts of Kindergarten Students Including Those At-risk for Learning Disabilities

Author
Kurz, Leigh Ann, author.

ISBN
9780438109858

Personal Author
Kurz, Leigh Ann, author.

Physical Description
1 electronic resource (292 pages)

General Note
Source: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 79-11(E), Section: A.
 
Advisors: Sheri Berkeley Committee members: Angela Miller; Allison Ward Parson; Jade Wexler.

Abstract
This pre/post quasi-experimental study investigated the effects of Literacy Integrated with Kindergarten Science (LINKS), a three-week intervention that integrated science content into existing components of literacy instruction (e.g., shared reading, literacy centers, writing), on the science learning of kindergarten students, including those at-risk for learning disabilities. Students from nine inclusive kindergarten classrooms and their teachers participated. Classrooms were balanced based on teacher and classroom variables and purposely assigned to treatment (LINKS) or comparison (business as usual) conditions. Students' science learning, depth of knowledge, and perceptions were evaluated. Five treatment teachers were trained on LINKS components and implemented the intervention's three components (interactive read-alouds of science informational texts, science-infused literacy centers, science writing activities) during the kindergarten language arts block. Results revealed the treatment group significantly outperformed the comparison group on a measure of science learning (science content and inquiry skills). Treatment students also had significantly greater growth in answer complexity scores and were able to verbalize a deeper understanding of science content covered during the intervention period than comparison students. Additionally, student perceptions of their learning were revealed in themes of school enjoyment, accomplishments, misconceptions of science, and integrated learning. Implications of findings and recommendations for future research are discussed.

Local Note
School code: 0883

Subject Term
Reading instruction.
 
Science education.
 
Early childhood education.

Added Corporate Author
George Mason University. Special Education.

Electronic Access
http://gateway.proquest.com/openurl?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&rft_val_fmt=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:dissertation&res_dat=xri:pqm&rft_dat=xri:pqdiss:10809792


Shelf NumberItem BarcodeShelf LocationShelf LocationHolding Information
XX(691677.1)691677-1001Proquest E-Thesis CollectionProquest E-Thesis Collection