Publication Date
2009
School
School of Education
Major
Integrated Studies: Elementary--Teacher Certification
Primary Subject Area
Education, Elementary
Keywords
Newbery, Children's Literature
Disciplines
Education
Recommended Citation
Ricksecker, Rebekah E., "Irresistable Children’s Literature: The Benefits of Integrating Newbery Award Books into the Curriculum" (2009). Senior Honors Theses. 83.
https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/honors/83
Abstract
Reading is the most fundamental skill taught in school. Many schools rely heavily on textbooks and basal readers to teach reading skills. Research, however, shows that exposing students to outside literature is more likely to promote a love of reading that will last for a lifetime. Books that have won the Newbery Medal, which is given to “the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children” (Association, 2004, p. 3), can and should be integrated into the elementary and middle school curriculum. Given since 1922, Newbery Award books provide a variety of themes and thought-provoking topics appropriate for classroom use. Teachers assume the role of exposing students to quality literature to promote not only academic growth but also the desire to become a lifelong reader. This thesis may be used as a tool for teachers to select appropriate books for a variety of classroom uses. The paper categorizes the Newbery Medal books, showing how they can be integrated into social studies, science, fine arts, and multicultural education, and also provides examples of how these books may be used as bibliotherapy.
