The Language Factor in Mathematics Tests

Abstract

In this study we investigated the importance of language in student test performance on mathematics word problems. Students were given released items from the National Assessment of Educational Progress mathematics assessment, along with parallel items that were modified to reduce their linguistic complexity. In interviews, students typically preferred the revised items over the original counterparts. Paper-and-pencil tests containing original and revised items were administered to 1,174 8th grade students. Students who were English language learners (ELLs) scored lower on the math test than proficient speakers of English. There were also differences in math performance with respect to socioeconomic status (SES) but not gender. Linguistic modification of test items resulted in significant differences in math performance; scores on the linguistically modified version were slightly higher. Some student groups benefited more from the linguistic modification of items-in particular, students in low-level and average math classes, but also ELLs and low SES students.