The Impact of the Four-Component Lesson on Student Retention and Transfer of Reading Strategies in a Fourth Grade Classroom
Date of Award
Spring 5-16-2020
Document Type
Project (696 or 796 registration)
Degree Name
Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
Ximena Suarez-Sousa
Keywords
COVID-19, crisis response, virtual learning, distance learning, four-component lesson, mini-lesson, strategies, modeling
Abstract
The purpose of this action research study was to determine the impact of utilizing Dr. Debra Peterson’s four components of a lesson on student retention and transfer in fourth grade students. The components of the four-step lesson are as follows: explain the strategy/state the objective of the lesson, tell the “why” (why are we learning this, what is its implication), demonstrate or model explicitly, signal the transfer (Taylor, Pearson, Peterson, & Rodriguez, 2003). Data was to be collected through observation, surveys, interviews, and both formal and informal assessments. However, in mid-March schools were forced to close due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Educators were required to provide distance learning. As a result, the four-component lesson approach was not able to be accurately implemented. A journal was kept chronicling the experience teaching during the time of distance learning. It was analyzed for themes and several stood out; adapting curriculum and teaching to virtual platforms, maintaining relationships with students, parent communication, collaboration between colleagues, and holding students accountable. As a result of teaching during this crisis the suggestions for future educators in the same type of situation are to remain flexible, focus on the standards and the students, maintain those relationships with students, have open communication with families and colleagues, adjust expectations, and extend grace to others and yourself.
Keywords: covid-19, crisis response, virtual learning, distance learning, four-component lesson, mini-lesson, strategies, modeling
Recommended Citation
Hogan, Shannon, "The Impact of the Four-Component Lesson on Student Retention and Transfer of Reading Strategies in a Fourth Grade Classroom" (2020). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 321.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/321