EFFECTIVE READING STRATEGIES OF 6TH GRADE ENGLISH LEARNERS

Abstract

Abstract Anthony, Rosemary, Effective reading strategies of 6th grade English learners (Doctor of Education in Executive Educational Leadership), May 2019. Houston Baptist University, Houston, Texas. The demographics of American schools are rapidly changing to resemble diverse neighborhoods and communities. This shift is causing educators to reconsider instruction in reading classes designed to support English learners and improve reading levels. English learners are a unique group of students with reading difficulties that effect their achievement. English learners who read below grade level will have trouble in content curriculum and understanding grade level lessons and objectives. It is vital reading teachers understand the value of the explicit approach to teaching reading strategies to 6th grade English learners. This action research case study explored the frequency of effective strategies in reading for 6th grade ELs in Texas; and discovered the frequency of effective strategies in reading to help ELs enrolled in the 6th grade and who currently read below grade level as identified in 5th grade by the State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR) test and Lexile scores. This study determined which reading strategy improved reading levels for identified students. Students completed a reading survey at the end of the school year to determine the most effective reading strategy used during reading class used to increase the reading levels as determined by STAAR. A Likert scale survey was used to identify the most effective reading strategy to confirm reading achievement from identified students. While research continues to advance, continued modifications to reading teaching practices to English learners in 6th grade and how to address academic reading gaps will improve reading levels. Implications and thoughts for future studies are addressed. Keywords: effective practices, English learners, English as a Second Language, reading, teaching strategies