Meaningful Reading: Broadening Perspectives Through Literature
Graduation Date
Spring 1995
Document Type
Master's Thesis
Document Form
Degree Name
Master of Science
Program Name
Education
Abstract
This study examines strategies for enhancing understanding in the classroom through various literary genre including historical fiction, biographies, autobiographies, classics and contemporary novels. By using different forms of literature, students can gain global awareness and broad perspectives, and develop an appreciation for the literacy, historical, cultural and emotional content in books.
Strategies explored include making meaning out of text, using prior knowledge and using an holistic approach to literature. When these strategies are applied to reading material in its various forms, students learn to make connections in a meaningful way. Through literature, rather than textbooks, the learner can obtain a wide range of information.