Reimagining ELA for Equity: Evaluating Educative Materials for English Learners Across States

• In Event: Virtual Poster Session
  In Virtual iPresentation Only: Division H - Section 2: Program Evaluation in Schools Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

This paper evaluates the implementation of the Educative-English Language Arts 12-week replacement curriculum in 8th-grade classrooms across four U.S. school districts. The materials support the development of English Learners’ multiliteracies, autonomy, voice, and agency. Using preliminary qualitative data, we explore teacher experiences and perceived impacts on English Learners (ELs). Teachers found the materials more engaging than typical curricula, despite challenges such as time constraints and mixed-proficiency classrooms. Most reported increased engagement and collaboration among students. Several teachers also observed gains in Lexile levels and language proficiency. We plan to validate these perceptions through analysis of student achievement data. Findings suggest the curriculum’s spiraled design, multimodal texts, and structured discussions meaningfully supported instructional practice and promoted academic growth for ELs.

Authors

• Zahava Nickell, Empirical Education Inc.

• Adam Schellinger, Empirical Education Inc.

• Andrew P. Jaciw, Empirical Education Inc.

• Aida Walqui, WestEd

• Jenna L. Zacamy, Empirical Education Inc.