Using a Tablet-Based Intervention to Increase Sight-Phrase Acquisition for an ELL Student

Abstract The process of learning to read is more difficult for English language learners (ELLs) because they are often learning a new language as they are trying to learn to read. Learning irregular/high-frequency words (sight words) may be especially challenging for ELL students. Limited research exists on the effects of interventions designed to help ELL students read phrases containing sight-words. This study used a multiple-probe design across sets of phrases to evaluate the effects of a tablet-based phrase intervention on an ELL student’s acquisition of phrases containing sight-words. Repeated measure graphs indicate an immediate increase in acquired phrases following intervention delivery with a steep increase in phrase acquisition. Additionally, the student was able to maintain gains after the intervention phase. The discussion emphasizes the delivery of the phrase intervention in the classroom setting.