Research Symposium

BIO

Isabella Galguera is a first year student at Florida State University who is working towards a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She was born and raised in Miami, Florida and has become actively involved on campus through student organizations, joining a sorority, and investing time in research which will support her academic interests in the future. In addition, Isabella earned a place on Deans list during her first semester and is continuing her strong academic performance and commitment to her studies. She also plans on continuing her education by attending graduate school in hopes to further her education. Isabella is excited to continue exploring opportunities at Florida State University that will advance her knowledge and experience.

Project BEE-S: How Oral Language Supports Spelling Production in Elementary Students

Abstract

How does linguistic variation, specifically in African American English, relate to spelling performance in first and second grade students? The purpose of this research is to examine spelling production in elementary aged children and understand its relation to their oral language skills. My research mentor has so far been taking time to ensure our team has perfected the administration of the three assessments we are using. As well as mastering our ability to grade said tests post administration. The research team and I are tasked with administering a two to three day test to groups of elementary aged children in different schools and, following the administration of tests, grading the data we acquired. Out of the several frameworks used in our work, the lexical quality hypothesis guides us the most. At this stage of the project, the research team is prepared and ready to begin collecting data. The studies are designed to show how factors such as oral language will influence spelling in first and second graders. The research team is now prepared to go out into the field to begin administering tests to participants, as well as beginning to analyze our data we collect. The results of this study aim to improve the understanding of how spelling develops in elementary aged speakers of African American English. This research will suggest spelling differences reflect language variations. The study may help teachers be more supportive in classrooms, while aiding and instructing their students.

Keywords: Child, Spelling, Speech