Campus Location
Abilene Campus
Date of Award
Spring 5-8-2026
Document Type
Manuscript
Department
Teacher Education
Degree Name
Master of Education in Teaching and Learning
First Advisor
Andrew Huddleston
Abstract
The purpose of this research study was to examine what happens when literature circles are implemented in a first-grade classroom. This study also aimed to explore how literature circles shaped students’ motivation and enjoyment of reading. Additionally, the researcher focused on understanding both teacher and student perceptions of literature circles. Qualitative data was collected over a four-week period through observations, field notes, student and teacher interviews, survey responses, and student reflection journals. The data was analyzed using the constant comparative method. Findings showed that literature circles in a first-grade classroom are a powerful structure for supporting engagement, comprehension, and reading identity. It also found that students and teachers have positive perceptions of literature circles.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Hassell, Cambell, "How Literature Circles Shape First-Grade Students’ Motivation and Enjoyment in Reading" (2026). Masters of Education in Teaching and Learning. 94.
https://digitalcommons.acu.edu/metl/94
Included in
Early Childhood Education Commons, Elementary Education Commons, Language and Literacy Education Commons