Implementing Evidence-Based Instructional Practices For English Learners, Using Research To Guide Practice – Part 1 (November 2022)

This podcast explores evidence-based instructional practices for teachers that are relevant for English learners (ELs) in grades kindergarten through 12. Evidence-based instructional practices for ELs include:

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.

This podcast focuses on the practice of leveraging ELs’ home language, prior knowledge, and cultural assets. In Part 1, Kristin Simonne, Education Program Specialist at OELA, speaks with Jennifer Blitz, an expert from WestEd, on the recommendations regarding ELs and evidence-based instructional practices, and how these practices can support them in their development of content knowledge and language.