Evaluation of the Expository Reading and Writing Curriculum: Positive Impact on High School English Achievement

• In Event: Saturday Roundtable Session 11:25 am
  In Roundtable Session: What Worked to Promote Student Outcomes in High Schools (Table 24)

Abstract

The Expository Reading and Writing Curriculum (ERWC) is an English curriculum developed by the California State University that aims to improve students’ readiness for college-level English and future careers. Through an Investing in Innovation (i3) Validation grant that was awarded to the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, WestEd conducted a randomized controlled trial that evaluated the ERWC’s impact on student achievement. Grade 11 students were randomized to either the ERWC or a comparison English curriculum in 17 participating schools. Assignment to the ERWC had a positive and statistically significant impact on student achievement. The What Works Clearinghouse determined that the study met its rigorous standards and that there is strong evidence of effectiveness.

Authors

• Anne Porterfield, WestEd

• Tony B. Fong, WestEd

• Lisa Benham-Lewis, Fresno County Superintendent of Schools

• Mariam Ogle, Fresno County Superintendent of Schools