| The goal of this action-research study was to investigate the factors leading to reading proficiency. Specifically, this study focused on the effects of a buddy reading program. The research questions were: 1) What are the elements that contribute to reading proficiency? 2) Is buddy reading a creative way to enhance motivation and engagement in reading, as well as improve comprehension skills, especially among English Language Learners (ELLs)? Implemented in a Title I private school in a second grade classroom with a majority of ELLs, buddy reading was conducted for six weeks. Data were collected from pre-intervention teacher interviews, pre-and post-intervention surveys, pre-and post-intervention Likert-type surveys, focus group interviews, and researcher's observations. Findings indicated that buddy reading was a successful method to promote motivation and engagement in literacy, as well as develop comprehension skills. The significance of this study was that peer reading can provide an optimal reading experience for ELLs. |
