The effect of the implementation of the readers' workshop on reading achievement in a first grade mixed-ability classroom. (c2009)

Abstract

The importance of differentiating reading instruction to meet the needs of students who have various abilities and interests has been given a lot of attention lately. Researchers have been trying to use the readers' workshop as an instructional approach that would differentiate reading instruction to meet the needs of all students. Therefore, this research study aims to analyze the effects of the implementation ofthe readers' workshop on students' reading levels and comprehension skills in a first grade mixed-ability classroom. The instruments used in this study are running records and reading continuums that are used at the beginning and at the end of the academic year, teacher's professional notebook and notes from the guided reading sessions and teacher-student conferences. The results of the study showed that the readers' workshop that was used as a differentiated reading approach improved students' reading levels and comprehension skills. Further longitudinal studies that would determine the long-term results of the implementation ofthe readers' workshop on students' reading achievement should be conducted in Lebanese schools.