Early literacy : how the library media specialist can work with teachers and families to raise literacy skills in K-2 students : an honors thesis (HONRS 499)

According to a statistic from April 1995, by the National Assessment of Educational Progress, less than 1/3 of 9 year olds are proficient in reading, and only 2-5% are reading at advanced levels. It is my goal to learn how the library media specialist can help change that statistic by collaborating with teachers and families of kindergarten through second graders. Together, they can teach the important early literacy skills to produce future proficient readers. By focusing on phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, the young readers will be encouraged to succeed. This paper will explore activities and lessons that the library media specialist and/or teacher can do with K-2 students, along with activities that families can do at home to help their children acquire stronger early literacy skills.