| The purpose of this 10-week action research study was to determine if Readers Theatre impacted the oral fluency of English Language Learners. Additionally, student feedback was sought regarding feelings towards Readers Theatre, and perception of its effect on their reading. This study's research question was: How does the implementation of Readers Theatre affect the oral fluency of English Language Learners? Conducted in a Title I school, a Readers Theatre program was implemented, consisting of weekly mini-lessons and script work, culminating in a performance. Data were collected quantitatively and qualitatively through focus group pre- and post-tests of fluency (automaticity, rate, and prosody), whole class post-survey eliciting feelings about Readers Theatre, interviews with teachers, and researcher's anecdotal notes from lessons and performances. Results indicated that fluency levels improved in one or more areas, and students expressed enjoyment in the script activities and a perception of reading growth. |
