A practicum attempted to improve the low reading achievement of Chapter 1 students in a low socioeconomic fifth-grade class by implementing a self-esteem building program. Activities were designed in a workbook format to complement class instruction in self-esteem building exercises. An emphasis on critical thinking skills was incorporated into the workbook which also allowed for growth in the affective domain. It was concluded that self-esteem building exercises did make positive changes in reading achievement in many students. The exercises and workbook provided a vehicle to facilitate the formation of cooperative learning groups for reading achievement. (Four graphs and 13 sample workbook pages are attached.) (Author/RS)