Predictive Validity and Accuracy of Oral Reading Fluency for English Learners

The predictive validity and accuracy of an oral reading fluency (ORF) measure for a statewide assessment in English language arts was examined for second-grade native English speakers (NESs) and English learners (ELs) with varying levels of English proficiency. In addition to comparing ELs with native English speakers, the impact of English proficiency was examined among ELs. The results suggest that the predictive validity of ORF is stronger for native English speakers than for ELs. ORF scores for ELs with intermediate English proficiency were less correlated to the state assessment than for other EL subgroups. Similarly, the predictive accuracy of ORF was found to vary by English proficiency. Results suggest that ELs should not be treated as a homogeneous group and that cut scores should be used with caution.