The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the allocation of more instructional time for the teaching of reading related to reading achievement of students in grades three to six. Comparisons were made between eight schools which were determined to fall within the "middle band" of socio-economic levels by the California Assessment Program (CAP).
An Ex post facto design was used to explore the possible effects of more or less allocated instructional time, comparing CAP scores of like students. Achievement scores of approximately 1,200 students in eight schools of the Oak Grove School District were targeted for investigation. Grade level instructional time schedules were analyzed and compared to reading achievement. A Spearman rank-order correlation of school-level CAP reading scores was tested for statistical significance using a t-test, to answer the following questions: (1) Does an increase in the allocation of instructional time produce higher levels of student achievement in reading? (2) Is there a difference between primary and upper grade student achievement in reading with more instructional time?
Analysis of the results showed inconsistency in the relationship between allocated instructional time and reading achievement in grades three and six. There was a slight indication that more time may result in higher achievement for students in grade three.
The amount of time allocated for reading instruction is a critical factor to the success of reading for all students. Where and how instructional time is allocated is a decision which may have far-reaching effects on student achievement. This study has added one more piece to the puzzle by analyzing time for reading at two grade levels. The results of the investigation, while limited, would help educators in the continuing quest to improve instruction.