The Effects of Literature Circles on Second Graders’ Reading Comprehension and Motivation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the increase in levels of reading comprehension and motivation for students participating in literature circles and guided reading groups. The participants of this study were second grade students enrolled in a suburban school in Anne Arundel County for the 2014-2015 school year. Data was collected during small group instruction between January and April. The students were given a pre-test to determine their beginning reading comprehension level using the Fountas and Pinnell program. Throughout the study, behaviors were recorded using a behavior and motivation tally chart. At the end of the study, the students were given a post-test to assess their reading comprehension level using the Fountas and Pinnell program. They hypothesis was supported since there was no significant difference between the increase in levels of comprehension for literature circles compared to guided reading. Research in the area of reading comprehension and motivation should continue in order to provide students with the most effective form of instruction.