Assessment and Intervention for English Language Learners

Book excerpt: This book presents evidence-based practices for appropriate assessment of and school-based services for young English language learners. It identifies and addresses the challenges of assessing and intervening with these students at the curricular, instructional, environmental, and individual levels, particularly the complexities of determining the presence or absence of learning disabilities. Case studies and comparisons with fluent English speakers illustrate the screening and evaluation process – including multi-tier system of supports (MTSS) and response to intervention (RTI) – and proactive intervention planning in core literacy and math domains. Together, these chapters model effective teaching practice, advocacy, and teamwork with parents and colleagues as well as policy development toward meeting the needs of this diverse student population. This invaluable guide: Examines challenges of data collection when working with English language learners. Traces the development of dual-language fluency and competence. Discusses language-acquisition issues affecting oral language assessment. Reviews commonly used assessment and intervention tools in use with English learners. Features specialized chapters relating to reading, writing, and mathematics competencies. Can be used regardless of first language spoken by students. Assessment and Intervention for English Language Learners is an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and graduate students in diverse fields including school and clinical child psychology; assessment, testing, and evaluation; language education; special education; and educational psychology.