Date Approved

8-14-2026

Graduate Degree Type

Project

Degree Name

Education-Literacy Studies: Reading (M.Ed.)

Degree Program

Literacy, Educational Foundations, & Technology

First Advisor

Elizabeth Stolle

Academic Year

2025/2026

Abstract

Research has revealed important information about students reading proficiently, yet most students in public schools throughout the country are reading below their grade level. As proficient readers, early elementary students need to know how to read the words on the page and understand what they mean. Students cannot read for knowledge or fun if they don’t know what the words are on the page. Two theoretical frameworks have informed this project to improve student reading. One is Orthographic Mapping Theory and the other is Alphabetic Phase Theory. This project explores the background of teaching reading, both past and present. Students being able to read is critical so they can succeed in school, as well as after schooling. Phonics and phonemic awareness are two early literacy foundational skills that will improve reading, especially for struggling readers, in early elementary classrooms.

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