Implementing Evidence-based Instructional Practices for English Learners (January 2025)

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Author
Author
OELA
Institutional Author
U.S. Department of Education, Institute of Education Sciences, National Center for Education Evaluation and Regional Assistance
Originating Organization
OELA
Details
Resource Type
Brief
Acquisition Number
528
Published Date
01-13-2025 6:03 PM
Published Year
2025
Number of Pages
42
Language(s)
Subscription Only
No
Abstract

As with all learners, English learners (ELs) require more than basic reading and writing skills to successfully engage with rigorous academic content, progress through school, and be fully prepared for postsecondary education and careers. ELs must be able to access grade-level content while simultaneously developing proficiency and autonomy in using academic English. ELs must also acquire the advanced literacy skills to engage with complex content and express their ideas in ways that meet the language-use expectations of each content area. Individuals at all levels of the education system can help students develop these skills by making intentional and evidence-based instructional decisions.
To support educators in this endeavor, this brief presents and elaborates upon five evidence-based instructional practices:
1. Provide ELs with opportunities to build content knowledge and language competence in tandem.
2. Leverage ELs’ home language, prior knowledge, and cultural assets.
3. Engage ELs in productive interactions with peers.
4. Provide direct and explicit instruction focusing on key aspects of literacy.
5. Incorporate regular opportunities to develop written language skills.
These practices were drawn from practices identified as “promising and effective” in Promoting the Educational Success of Children and Youth Learning English: Promising Futures, as well as from practices recommended by the What Works Clearinghouse Institute of Education Sciences (IES) Practices Guides, Effective Literacy and English Language Instruction for English Learners in the Elementary Grades and Teaching Academic Content and Literacy to English Learners in Elementary and Middle.

Topics
English learner classroom instruction
English Learner Success
English Learners
Keywords
Teacher Resources