The Incorporation of Puppetry into Reading Instruction

Abstract

In this study, the use of puppetry was explored as a mediational means for students' comprehension while reading a variety of texts. Seven first grade students from a rural school district took part in this study. The study took place over the course of five weeks and included students using puppets with reader's theatre scripts as well as trade books. The students taking part participated in a twenty minute puppetry center where they were encouraged to incorporate puppets into their reading activities. Data were analyzed using triangulation of student interviews, live observations, audio tape recorded sessions, retelling rubrics, and student work samples. Analysis showed that the use of puppets influenced the students' reading experience in a variety of different ways.