10/30/2019

Impact of Core5 for Entering English Learners With Low English Proficiency

PURPOSE: More than 60% of English Learners (ELs) in fourth-grade score below U.S. proficiency levels in reading. Here we consider the extent to which use of Core5 can support reading development for ELs. In particular, we asked how well Core5 can support ELs who start school with the lowest English language proficiency level.

METHOD: This report examined the reading performance of 175 students in kindergarten or first grade. There were 25 ELs in the sample. Nine ELs are highlighted in this report based on scoring at the lowest proficiency level on the WIDA assessment of English language skills. These students were compared to ELs who scored at higher proficiency levels and non-EL students. All students were taught with Core5 as the primary form of reading instruction over two school years. Reading performance was assessed with the Group Reading Assessment and Diagnostic Evaluation (GRADE) prior to and following Core5 use.

KEY FINDINGS 

• ELs with the lowest language proficiency level on WIDA made large gains on the GRADE, ending the second-year scoring within the average range (25th–75th percentiles) on the test. 
• ELs with higher proficiency levels and non-ELs also made gains on the GRADE. However, gains made by the lowest proficiency ELs were of larger magnitude than gains made by their peers.