Examining the Growth Trajectory of Kindergarten English Learners' Oral Language Performance in Texas Border and Nonborder Schools

• In Event: Poster Session 1: Literacy Innovations for Emergent Bilingual Students

Abstract

This study focuses on comparing the growth trajectory of border and non-border school districts regarding their kindergarten ELs’ oral performance. Using a growth hierarchical linear model, we investigated the effect of time, school location, and their interaction on ELs’ oral performance through the Texas English Language Proficiency Assessment System (TELPAS) test in five recent school year. It was found kindergarten ELs in Texas border school districts lagged behind their peers in oral English proficiency as measured by TELPAS speaking test. Such pattern was consistent over the span of five years.

Authors

• Zhuoying Wang, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Fuhui Tong, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Rafael Lara-Alecio, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Beverly J. Irby, Texas A&M University - College Station