Document Type

Graduate Project

Date of Degree Completion

Spring 2003

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

Department

Education

Committee Chair

Carol L. Butterfield

Second Committee Member

Gail Goss

Third Committee Member

Steven A. Schmitz

Abstract

Readers' Theatre is a wonderful teaching tool in which students practice and rehearse scripts in order to put on plays in front of an audience. The focus is on word accuracy and expression in reading without having to memorize lines. Studies have shown that Readers' Theatre can strengthen oral reading fluency by repeated readings, and increase confidence and motivation to read as students learn to read their parts with fluency and precision. Unfortunately, due to lack of availability and training, Readers' Theatre is not used in the classroom to the extent it should be, and many educators are uncomfortable with the concept of Readers' Theatre. This project researched studies and information on reading fluency, repeated readings, motivation to read, and Readers' Theatre. A teacher resource manual on Readers' Theatre was created that included directions, scripts, tips, and additional resources for performing Readers' Theatre plays in the classroom to increase oral reading fluency and motivation to read.

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