First hypothesis analysis. For the first directional hypothesis of comparing all
fourth grade scores, the researcher utilized an ANCOVA to check for statistical
differences between the treatment and control group’s fourth grade FCAT mathematics
scores. The ANCOVA permitted the researcher to use the fourth graders’ third grade
FCAT mathematics scores as a covariate. In addition, Pallant (2007) states that
ANCOVA is useful in situations when there is a small sample size and only small or
medium effect sizes. The use of ANCOVA reduces the error variance and increases the
chances of detecting a significant difference between the posttest scores.