Discussion of Findings
There were some limitations to the study.
Due to the small number of subjects, the results of this study were limited to the two intermediate-grade students with language learning disabilities (LLD), who received explicit strategies instruction in a small group setting three times per week in this study. The limited number of students who participated in this study and their diagnosis prevent the generalization of results of this study to other intermediate- grade students who attend suburban schools.
Additionally, the limited time the students spent applying these skills is considered a limitation on the effectiveness of the strategies. The students were unable to consistently apply the strategies during reading activities throughout the day, possibly preventing the generalization of skills.
The texts that were used to informally assess the students’ pretest and posttest scores for listening and reading comprehension were not leveled. Therefore, comparison of scores should be viewed with caution.
Finally, the length of this study was a limitation, since the repeated practice and review of strategies taught and used before, during, and after reading tasks was found to be essential to student success.