Author: Nicole Mancini
Title: Increasing Vocabulary and Comprehension Skills in Preschool Students With Disabilities Through Shared Reading
Institution: Nova Southeastern University
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Increasing Vocabulary and Comprehension Skills in Preschool Students With Disabilities Through Shared Reading. Mancini, Nicole M., 2006: Applied Dissertation, Nova Southeastern University, Fischler School of Education and Human Services. Oral Language/Vocabulary/Early Reading/ Receptive Language
This applied dissertation was designed to determine the effect of shared reading on receptive and expressive vocabulary and listening‑comprehension skills of preschool students with disabilities. Preschool students with disabilities are at risk for future reading difficulties. Vocabulary and comprehension development have been found to impact future reading abilities. The preschool special education program that was in place did not outline a specific style of reading that should be used to increase vocabulary and comprehension skills.
The writer utilized shared reading and scaffolding strategies before, during, and after reading storybooks. Shared reading sessions took place three times per week. Activities related to the stories were incorporated into various parts of the day. The teacher incorporated techniques using open-ended and probing questions, prompts, and explicit teaching in order to teach vocabulary and further listening comprehension before, during, and after reading a story. Each story was read three times during the week using the same techniques.
Shared reading resulted in a significant increase in receptive vocabulary scores. Expressive vocabulary and listening‑comprehension skills increased for many participants. The increases in receptive vocabulary, expressive vocabulary, and listening comprehension were determined by comparing group means from the pretests and posttests. Children showed an increase in attention and motivation during shared reading sessions as well. They were observed using new vocabulary in their daily conversations.