Description: According to the literature, standardized test scores
improve when students study foreign language. You are to investigate
this in Florida and see if you can find out if this holds true.
Task: Look up Florida elementary schools that have foreign language programs.
Compare these schools FCAT scores to schools without foreign
language programs.
Process: First you need to determine what kind of foreign language
instruction is given in the schools (FLES, FLEX, dual-language
immersion) you are investigating. You may want to consider other
demographic factors
about the school population as well. Once you have selected schools
with and without foreign language programs you will find out their
FCAT ratings for the different areas. What conclusions can you
draw? Write
a report explaining your findings.
Resources:
Florida Department of Education FCAT home page.
http://www.myfloridaeducation.com/sas/fcat/fcpress2.htm
National Directory
of Early Foreign Language Programs
http://www.cal.org/ericcll/earlyfl/
Conclusion: What conclusions
were you able to draw?
How might your findings have been affected
by other
factors?
Evaluation: Use the rubric that follows to make sure your report is
complete.
| Report includes: |
Thorough |
Minimal |
Inadequate |
| Complete FCAT scores in different curriculum areas for each school
in paper |
|
|
|
| Description of foreign language program in schools |
|
|
|
| Other significant demographic facts of schools |
|
|
|
| Conclusion reached and supported with evidence |
|
|
|
ACTFL Program Standards For The Preparation Of Foreign Language Teachers
STANDARD
6: Professionalism
Standard 6.a. Engaging in Professional Development. Candidates engage in professional development opportunities that
strengthen their own
linguistic and cultural competence and promote reflection on
practice.
Standard 6.b. Knowing the Value of Foreign Language Learning. Candidates know the value of foreign language learning to the
overall success
of all students and understand that they will need to become
advocates with students, colleagues, and members of the community
to promote
the field.
