Writing proficiency profiles of heritage learners of Chinese, Korean, and Spanish. (22nd October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gatti, Alberta; O'Neill, Teresa
• Is Part Of: Foreign language annals. Volume 51:Number 4(2018)
• Page Start: 719
• Page End: 737
• Publication Date: 2018-10-22
• Subjects: Chinese -- heritage status -- Korean -- Spanish -- writing proficiency test; Languages, Modern -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; 418.0071
• DOI: 10.1111/flan.12364
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0015-718X

Abstract

Abstract : This article describes what Intermediate and Advanced heritage language learners of Mandarin Chinese, Korean, and Spanish can do when writing in their heritage language, and what prevents these writers from performing at the next proficiency level. One hundred eighty‐seven samples were collected using the ACTFL Writing Proficiency Test. Each sample is analyzed employing a review form through which floor and ceiling criteria are identified, and the strengths and weaknesses of writing while attempting next‐level functions are made evident. The proficiency profiles resulting from this analysis are used to propose pedagogical practices in support of literacy development. The Challenges: Heritage learners acquire language in unique ways, exhibit unique linguistic characteristics, and have widely differing instructional needs, particularly when writing in their heritage language. What tasks can they effectively accomplish and what prevents heritage learners who scored at the Intermediate or Advanced‐levels of proficiency from being rated at the next, higher level?