Teaching Reading and Writing Beyond High-stakes Testing: A Case Study of a High School Teacher in China

This study investigates Chinese literacy teaching in adolescents under high-stakes testing pressure, using a mixed-methods approach. It explores a controversial topic in global education and collects data from various sources.

Format: Hardback
Length: 126 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Few English studies specifically focus on Chinese literacy teaching, particularly in the context of adolescents' reading and writing abilities. This topic is a highly contentious one in the contemporary global education landscape, as educators grapple with the challenge of cultivating lifelong readers and writers amidst the pressure of high-stakes testing. To gather comprehensive insights, a diverse range of data sources were employed, including observational field notes, semi-structured and unstructured interviews, sample National Center for Education Evaluation (NCEE) language arts test papers, and site photos.

Observational field notes provided valuable firsthand accounts of classroom practices and interactions between students and teachers. These notes captured the nuances of language learning, such as the strategies employed by teachers to engage students and promote literacy development. Semi-structured and unstructured interviews allowed participants to share their perspectives and experiences on Chinese literacy teaching, including their challenges, successes, and recommendations.

Sample NCEE language arts test papers provided a glimpse into the types of questions and tasks that assess students' reading and writing abilities in Chinese. These test papers helped to identify the specific skills and knowledge that students need to develop to achieve proficiency in Chinese literacy. Site photos provided visual evidence of the learning environments and resources available to students, such as libraries, classrooms, and cultural centers.

By analyzing these multiple sources of data, researchers were able to gain a deep understanding of the complexities involved in Chinese literacy teaching, particularly for adolescents. They identified key challenges such as limited access to resources, language barriers, and high-stakes testing pressure. They also explored effective strategies and approaches that educators can use to nurture lifelong readers and writers, such as incorporating cultural elements, using technology, and providing personalized support.

The findings from this study have significant implications for educators and policymakers alike. They emphasize the importance of investing in high-quality Chinese literacy teaching and providing students with the necessary resources and support to achieve success. Additionally, the study highlights the need for ongoing research and evaluation to refine and improve teaching practices and policies in this area.

In conclusion, this study contributes to the growing body of research on Chinese literacy teaching, particularly for adolescents. By examining multiple sources of data and exploring the challenges and opportunities faced by educators and students, the study provides valuable insights into the field. It underscores the importance of nurturing lifelong readers and writers and highlights the need for continued efforts to improve teaching practices and policies in this area.

Weight: 410g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032439303