Student Research Symposium Program Portal: Submission #279

Primary Student Contact First Name: Bailey 
Primary Student Contact Last Name: Walters
Pronouns: {Empty}
Primary Student Contact FSU Student Email: bw24m@fsu.edu
Photo of all individuals presenting this work: https://pc.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/research_portal/9194/IMG_2902.JPG
Major(s) of all individuals presenting this work: Elementary Education 
Bio of all individuals presenting this work:
My name is Bailey Walters, and I am an aspiring educator who is passionate about helping students learn and grow. I am focused on developing engaging and effective teaching strategies that support student understanding and participation. I strive to create a positive and inclusive classroom environment where all students feel supported and successful. I am dedicated to making learning meaningful and accessible for every student I will teach. 

Poster Title: Targeted Phonics for 4th Grade ELL Success 
Abstract:
This study examines the impact of targeted phonics intervention on the reading performance of a fourth-grade student. Using data-driven instruction, the project focused on strengthening vowel patterns and decoding skills identified as areas of need through initial assessments. The intervention was implemented over a 10-week period in a one-on-one setting, incorporating explicit instruction, guided practice, and decodable texts. Progress monitoring showed significant improvement in phonics skills, including vowel teams and digraph recognition. The findings suggest that targeted, systematic phonics instruction can effectively improve decoding and overall reading ability, supporting student growth and confidence in literacy.

Research Mentor Name: Aimee Frier
Research Mentor's College (or High School): Florida State University 
Research Mentor's Department (or Subject): Elementary Education 
Research Mentor's Email: afrier@pc.fsu.edu
Additional Research Mentor(s): {Empty}
Co-presenter(s): {Empty}
Keywords: Phonics, elementary education 
Poster Session/Number: 10:00 Graduate and Undergraduate presentations
Work: Complete
Presentation Modality: Face to Face Poster session
Poster PDF or Powerpoint: https://pc.fsu.edu/system/files/webform/research_portal/9194/research%20symposium%20in%20progress.pptx
Poster Thumbnail: {Empty}
I will be printing my poster: No
Year: 2026
Annual description: 6th annual Undergraduate Research Symposium, April 17, 2026
Update URL: https://pc.fsu.edu/student-research/symposium/research-symposium-program-portal?token=PwV4UuldKmT9FS7A3auslJnPRl9rJi1jCPQTpQRxQBo
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