Imagine Español Users in Texas out-perform Non-users on STAR Reading™ Spanish Test

During the 2017–2018 school year, three elementary schools in a large school district in Texas implemented Imagine Español. The program was used as a supplementary tool in the dual language program in Pre-K, grade one, and grade two. To determine the impact of Imagine Español, STAR Reading™ Spanish scale scores provided by the district were analyzed to measure student’s performance growth in the 2017-2018 school year.

The scope of the study was narrowed to analyze only the scale scores for students in grade one due to the low completion rate on the assessment in Kindergarten and grade two. Of the 111 first graders who completed the beginning-of-year and end-of-year assessment, eighty-six of them used Imagine Español with an average usage of 4.3 hours.

Results: First grade students show growth

Students who used Imagine Español and students who did not use the program were compared based on their achievement levels at the beginning of the school year. The two groups of students were found to be similar. 

On average, first graders who used Imagine Español during the 2017–2018 school year demonstrated more growth and out-performed non-users on the end-of-year assessment. 

Conclusion: Imagine Español helps early learners achieve on STAR Reading Spanish test

The first graders who used the program in the Texas school district experienced considerably more growth compared to peers who did not use the program as demonstrated by performance on the STAR Reading Spanish test. The results of this study support the role of Imagine Español as a supplementary tool for the development of Spanish language and literacy skills. Given these findings, we would expect similar results for similar students who use Imagine Español.

About Imagine Español

Imagine Español is instructional software designed to build and develop Spanish language and literacy skills for both native and non-native Spanish speakers from Pre-K to grade two. The program is uniquely crafted to address the specific features of the Spanish language such as letter-sound instruction, syllable awareness, and transparent orthography. 

While many Spanish-language software programs are literal translations of original English versions, Imagine Español features culturally responsive content specifically designed for young children learning to read Spanish. By highlighting the cultural and linguistic richness of Spanish-speaking countries, Imagine Español provides a more meaningful educational experience to students.

Learn more about how Imagine Español can help your early learners.