Action Research Project Donyalla Manns

Action Research Project

Donyalla Manns

Description of the Community

Description of Work Setting

Problem Description

Problem Documentation

Causative Analysis

Expected Outcomes

Measurement of Outcomes (subheading): 1-2 pages

Selected Solution Strategies / Calendar Plan

In its most basic form, ESL is a program for non-native English speakers to rapidly acquire the necessary communication skills in English to allow them to pursue their advanced studies at the university level. Most college bound foreign students do have some, albeit limited, experience with English. However, it is the advanced level of syntax and especially vocabulary that often cause difficulty at the advanced levels. Language is not simply rote memorization of works and sounds, but at the university level subtle issues in syntax and translation, idioms, and subject specific vocabulary. However, many ESL students are not successful in the mainstream American classroom for a variety of reasons. First, they often lack the basic learning skills in their own language that will allow success once vocabulary is mastered, but more pointedly they inability of many classrooms to provide enough enrichment activities and time to move ESL learners to the grade appropriate level needed.

If we honestly examine the barriers students face when learning English in the secondary school system, we find that there are outside social and cultural pressures, a lack of sophistication in the language that results in being so lost that behavioral problems abound, a lack of support at home because English is rarely spoken, and the tremendous desire to belong to their own socio-cultural group. In fact, research shows that many bilingual students move from school to school based on the economic necessity of the parents, and are thus unable to get a foundation in English. Because of this continued frustration, and the fact that they never seem to be able to gain mastery over the language to perform, many simply drop out. Clearly, if there is motivation from the parents to encourage English literacy, whether that be to help them or simply to focus the student on succeeding and graduating, studies see a 30-40% increase in scores in individuals in which the parents are actively involved in the ESL class. Thus, there are a number of proven successes that are available to help increase the efficacy of English instruction in the secondary schools. As well, from a practical point-of-view, increased English literacy in the broad context can only encourage.

This study examines one particularly learning environment, Yokota West Elementary School, and will use a mixed-method questionnaire to examine various ways in which ESL learners can achieve greater performance actualization and success within their environment. Data showed that there is a clear need within the educational community. The English as a Second Language program data supports the need for the school to improve in reading and writing. The Literacy Support Service program indicates a specific need to support students in the classroom in the areas of reading and writing. Stakeholders are committed to ensuring this happens and, based on the data, motivated to robustly move forward.