Date
5-2026
Document Type
Capstone Project (Open Access)
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
Department
Liberal Studies
Major
Liberal Studies
First Advisor
Paoze Thao
Abstract
The purpose of this capstone research project is to examine the benefits of contemporary literature on the literacy and cognitive development of elementary school students. Contemporary literature includes modern texts that reflect diverse experiences, identities, and real-life issues that students can relate to. This study reviews academic articles and interviews with elementary school teachers and school librarians to explore how these resources influence vocabulary development, reading comprehension, student engagement, and critical thinking. The findings indicated that contemporary literature supports literacy growth by increasing student motivation and connection to reading, while also promoting cognitive development through interpretation, perspective taking, and deeper thinking. Overall, this study highlights the importance of intentional book selection in supporting elementary students’ academic and developmental growth.
Recommended Citation
Hemenway, Autumn R., "Benefits of Contemporary Literature on Literacy and Cognitive Development in Elementary School Students" (2026). Capstone Projects and Master's Theses. 2159.
https://digitalcommons.csumb.edu/caps_thes_all/2159
Included in
Development Studies Commons, Early Childhood Education Commons, Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Educational Methods Commons, Elementary Education Commons, Elementary Education and Teaching Commons, Information Literacy Commons, Language and Literacy Education Commons, Liberal Studies Commons, Pre-Elementary, Early Childhood, Kindergarten Teacher Education Commons