Speakers; Meridian Public Schools MS

Results of two studies that investigated the effects of guest readers on the reading attitudes of second- and fifth-grade children in the Meridian (Mississippi) schools are presented. Twenty-nine second graders and 29 fifth graders participated. Local television personalities, school personnel, former teachers, and parents were among the guests over the 8-week period. The Benton/Boutwell Reading Attitude Inventory was used to gather pretest and posttest data. Results of a dependent t test found significant differences (p<.05) between pretest and posttest results in both studies. In addition, there was a significant difference (p<.05) between males and females. Gains in mean reading scores support the hypothesis that attitudes toward reading improved as a result of the program. Strategies and methods used to improve attitudes toward reading are explored. Examples of the types of reading experi4nce used in the study and the Benton Boutwell Reading Attitude Inventory were presented at the conference, but are not attached to this paper. Three tables present study findings. (Contains 3 references.) (Author/SLD) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document