| Title |
Winter, Bailey MED_2024 |
| Alternative Title |
Voice of Elementary-Level ELLs: Examining Speaking Anxiety and Potential Strategies for Support |
| Creator |
Winter, Bailey |
| Collection Name |
Master of Education |
| Description |
This study examines speaking anxiety among elementary-level English Language Learners (ELLs) and explores potential strategies for support. |
| Abstract |
This study examines speaking anxiety among elementary-level English Language Learners (ELLs) and explores potential strategies for support. Speaking anxiety, characterized by fear and lack of confidence in oral communication, significantly impacts language acquisition, classroom participation, and emotional well-being. Previous research has focused on older students, leaving a gap in understanding the unique challenges faced by younger learners. This study addresses this gap by investigating factors contributing to speaking anxiety in elementary ELLs and gathering students' suggestions for alleviating this anxiety.; ; The study involved 24 students from a Newcomer program in Northern Utah, primarily native Spanish speakers. Data collection included surveys adapted from the Horwitz Speaking Anxiety Scale and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative analysis revealed varying levels of speaking anxiety among participants, with no discernible pattern based on gender. Qualitative analysis identified performance-related anxiety and cognitive/communicative challenges as key factors.; ; Participants suggested several strategies to alleviate anxiety, including teacher support, parental involvement, creating a respectful environment, and using interactive learning games and language learning apps. The findings underscore the importance of a supportive classroom environment and tailored interventions to help ELLs overcome speaking anxiety and enhance their language learning experiences. This study contributes to a comprehensive understanding of foreign language speaking anxiety at the elementary level and offers practical strategies for educators. |
| Subject |
Language and languages--Study and teaching; Education--Study and teaching; Education, Elementary |
| Digital Publisher |
Stewart Library, Weber State University, Ogden, Utah, United States of America |
| Date |
2024 |
| Medium |
Thesis |
| Type |
Text |
| Access Extent |
407 KB; 32 page pdf |
| Rights |
The author has granted Weber State University Archives a limited, non-exclusive, royalty-free license to reproduce his or her theses, in whole or in part, in electronic or paper form and to make it available to the general public at no charge. The author retains all other rights. |
| Source |
University Archives Electronic Records: Master of Education. Stewart Library, Weber State University |
| Format |
application/pdf |
| ARK |
ark:/87278/s6gzzgkr |
| Setname |
wsu_smt |
| ID |
129833 |
| Reference URL |
https://digital.weber.edu/ark:/87278/s6gzzgkr |
