Text Topography: Exploring the Frequency Contours of K–8 Narrative and Informational "Close Reading" Texts

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 7
  In Poster Session: Innovations in Literacy Research, Theory, and Practice: Poster Session 2

Abstract

This study addressed two readability issues—a one-size-fits-all approach with respect to use of formulas and questions about how the word frequency variable in formulas functions (or does not function). Separate word frequency curves were calculated for each text (N= 253) in a data set containing informational and narrative texts at 3 different grade levels. Comparisons of the frequencies of words at percentiles 0th-100th, showed significant differences by genre. Qualitative analysis of the specific words in narrative vs. informational texts revealed patterns that intersected with previous research.

Author

• Heidi Anne Mesmer, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University