The effects of the "templates" for direct and explicit Spanish instruction on English language learners reading outcomes
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Date
2009-06
Authors
Terrazas Arellanes, Fatima Elvira, 1976-
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
Early literacy development and mastery of reading skills are critical goals for all students to accomplish; however, there is not yet a clear answer on how or in which language to teach these skills to English Language Learners (ELL). Until clear evidence on effective interventions is found, the academic achievement gap between mainstream students and ELL students is likely to increase. This study examined the effects of the "Templates" Spanish intervention program on the Spanish early literacy skills of phonemic awareness and the alphabetic principle for 12 kindergarten Hispanic ELL students enrolled in a dual immersion program. To assess the efficacy of the Spanish intervention program, a hierarchical linear model (HLM) design combining elements of multiple baseline across subjects, single-subject design, and a regression discontinuity design was used. Results of the HLM analysis found no significant effects of the intervention in the between subjects analysis. The visual analysis of single subject designs indicated that of the 12 subjects only three appeared to exhibit a positive effect of the intervention when measures of alphabetic principle were used and only two when phonemic awareness measures were used. Students for whom the "Templates" did not appear to have a positive effect were those that were already making adequate progress while receiving the small group curriculum practice. These students' skills continued growing when they received the "Templates" intervention and while some progressed at a slower pace they may have reached a sufficient level of skills that continuing or exceeding baseline levels of growth was unlikely. Our study provides some initial indication that students who are not making adequate progress with the small group curriculum practice may potentially benefit from the use of more structured, direct, and explicit instruction with the use of the "Templates". Limitations of this study included the use of a small sample size, the short duration of the time allowed for the intervention procedures, and the restricted time to conduct phase changes from baseline to intervention would have provided a clearer indication of intervention effects.
Description
xiii, 116 p. : ill. A print copy of this thesis is available through the UO Libraries. Search the library catalog for the location and call number.
Keywords
Spanish, English language learners, Reading, Templates, Bilingual education, Literacy, Reading instruction