Bridging English Language Learner Achievement Gaps through Effective Vocabulary Development Strategies

Abstract

Despite a well-documented history of immigration in the United States of America and rise in population of students that speak a language other than English, academic achievement gaps between English Language Learners and their native English language speaking counterparts from Grades Pre-Kindergarten through the college/university level still exist. This research paper conducted a review of philosophical and scholarly literature which displayed evidence that vocabulary development is a major section that educators should consider focusing for to better achievement with English as Second Language students. Implementing educational practices that promote high-frequency vocabulary learning, using teaching approaches that include cognitive and metacognitive strategy, along with incorporating computer-based instruction into language development activities were found to be effective strategies. The discussion of the identified strategies presented in the present review of literature concludes with recommendations for administrators and education professionals serving English Language Learners and English as Second Language students in various learning environments.