ERIC Number: EJ737281
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2005
Pages: 38
Abstractor: Author
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0034-6543
EISSN: N/A
A Synthesis of Research on Language of Reading Instruction for English Language Learners
Slavin, Robert E.; Cheung, Alan
Review of Educational Research, v75 n2 p247-284 Sum 2005
This article reviews experimental studies comparing bilingual and English-only reading programs for English language learners. The review method is best-evidence synthesis, which uses a systematic literature search, quantification of outcomes as effect sizes, and extensive discussion of individual studies that meet inclusion standards. A total of 17 studies met the inclusion standards. Among 13 studies focusing on elementary reading for Spanish-dominant students, 9 favored bilingual approaches on English reading measures, and 4 found no differences, for a median effect size of +0.45. Weighted by sample size, an effect size of +0.33 was computed, which is significantly different from zero (p less than 0.05). One of two studies of heritage languages (French and Choctaw) and two secondary studies favored bilingual approaches. The review concludes that although the number of high-quality studies is small, existing evidence favors bilingual approaches, especially paired bilingual strategies that teach reading in the native language and English at different times each day. However, further research using longitudinal, randomized designs is needed to determine how best to ensure reading success for all English language learners. (Contains 1 table and 1 note.)
Descriptors: Teaching Methods, Second Language Learning, Reading Instruction, Reading Programs, Effect Size, Bilingualism, Bilingual Education, Synthesis, Spanish Speaking, French, American Indian Languages, Language of Instruction, English (Second Language), Sample Size, Educational Research
American Educational Research Association. 1230 17th St. NW, Washington, DC 20036-3078. Tel: 202-223-9485; Fax: 202-775-1824; e-mail: subscriptions@aera.net; Web site: http://www.aera.net.
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
IES Funded: Yes
Grant or Contract Numbers: R305A040082
What Works Clearinghouse Reviewed: Does Not Meet Evidence Standards
WWC Study Page: https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/Study/90312
IES Cited: ED528962; ED497258