Differences In Vocabulary And Syntax Usage Between Nez Perce Indian And White Kindergarten Children

Abstract

Through the use of the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test and the Northwestern Syntax Screening Test, this study sought to determine if there were significant differences between Nez Perce Indian and white kindergarten chil-dren (21 in each group) in their use of receptive vocabulary and receptive and expressive syntax. The study also attempted to determine if there were any significant differences between re-ceptive vocabulary and receptive syntax and between receptive and expressive syntax within each population. Significant differences were found between the two populations in all three tasks measured. This investigation has implica-tions for educational strategy, as well as for further language evaluational and instructional considerations.