Researchers studied grouping English learners (ELs) in two settings. The high school study used New York City data for 31,303 ninth graders from 2013, 2014 and 2015. Students were classed by years learning English: newcomer (1-3 years), developing (4-6 years) and long-term (7 or more years). The researchers measured the percent of ELs in students' courses and then looked at graduation and college entry.
They found higher concentrations of ELs in courses were linked to lower chances of graduating and lower college enrollment. A separate elementary trial randomly put 84 fourth- and fifth-grade ELs in all-EL or mixed groups and found no clear overall difference. The authors advise caution and more targeted use of separate EL courses.
Difficult words
- educator — A person who teaches or helps students.educators
- effective — Producing a desired result or outcome.
- enroll — To register or sign up for something, like school.enrolled
- graduation — The act of completing a course of study.
- mix — To combine different things together.mixing
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Why do you think grouping English learners might not be effective?
- Have you seen different ways to teach that might help students more?
- What could schools do to improve graduation rates for learners?
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