Adolescents learning the language of instruction require specialized language support, which is most effective when targeted in both instructional and intervention settings. Educators should leverage students’ home languages and cultures as assets, maintain high expectations, and provide access to rigorous, grade-level content.
Resources
Teaching Academic Content and Literacy to English Learners in Elementary and Middle School
An IES practice guide on teaching content and literacy to English learners.
Academic Vocabulary for 5th to 7th Grade English Language Learners in Texas
Vocabulary routines for English learners in grades 5 to 7.
Developing Multilingual Learners’ Proficiency with Academic Language
Ideas for building academic language with multilingual learners.
Vocabulary Instruction for English Language Learners
Evidence-based strategies for explicit vocabulary instruction, including cognate awareness, for English language learners.