Imagine entering a classroom where every word, instruction and interaction feels foreign. This is a reality faced daily by English Language Learners (ELLs). For these students, mastering a new language means more than just learning vocabulary — it’s about bridging cultural divides, overcoming academic hurdles and building confidence in an unfamiliar environment. Understanding how language acquisition works and applying effective strategies can make all the difference in turning these challenges into opportunities for growth.
According to Kristina Robertson and Karen Ford in an article from Colorín Colorado, achieving advanced fluency in English typically takes five to seven years for individuals with strong first language and literacy skills. For those with less-developed first language foundations, this process can extend to seven to ten years. Educators must recognize that each ELL brings unique skills and experiences that significantly shape their learning journey.
Pursuing the online Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Reading program from Arkansas State University (A-State) equips educators with advanced knowledge and skills to address diverse literacy needs, including those of ELLs. This program includes courses like Theories of Language Acquisition, which provide a deep understanding of how individuals learn and develop language over time. The curriculum overall enables educators to apply evidence-based models and strategies to support ELL students at various proficiency levels.
The Stages of Language Acquisition
Robertson and Ford explain that every ELL student has their own “…unique language and education background, and this will have an impact on their English learning process.” The authors outline five stages of language acquisition:
- Pre-production: Minimal verbal communication and reliance on gestures and visual aids
- Early production: Use of short phrases and basic vocabulary
- Speech emergence: Confidence grows, leading to longer phrases and simple sentences
- Intermediate fluency: Ability to express complex ideas, though challenges with nuance remain
- Advanced fluency: Near-native proficiency achieved after years of practice
Reading specialists use these stages to provide targeted support and scaffolding that aligns with each learner’s progress. Language acquisition is a complex process influenced by factors such as a learner’s first language proficiency, educational background and exposure to the target language. Educators must recognize that each ELL has unique skills and experiences that significantly shape their learning journey.
Effective Instructional Strategies
Reading specialists use evidence-based strategies to support English Language Learners in their academic development. According to teachers cited by Larry Ferlazzo in an Education Week article, collaborative activities that promote language practice in social settings are particularly effective. These tasks help students build communication skills while fostering engagement and peer connections.
Explicitly teaching academic vocabulary and high-frequency words is another key strategy for ELLs. Connecting lessons to students’ experiences and cultural backgrounds enhances understanding and affirms their identities. This culturally responsive approach boosts both confidence and inclusivity in the classroom.
Tailoring instruction to match students’ language proficiency levels ensures targeted support. Regular progress monitoring helps educators adjust strategies and set appropriate goals. Together, these practices create a dynamic and adaptive environment that empowers ELLs to succeed.
Foundations for Teaching ELLs
Teaching these students requires a strong foundation in language acquisition principles. According to Education Elements, an essential approach is providing instruction that integrates listening, reading, writing and speaking about content, creating a language-rich classroom. Reading specialists ensure instruction is tailored to each student’s proficiency level, offering targeted support to promote both language and academic growth.
Reading specialists apply language acquisition models like the Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) to integrate language and content instruction. This involves teaching academic concepts while explicitly addressing language skills, such as vocabulary and sentence structures. These strategies help ELLs engage with the curriculum while gradually building their English proficiency.
In classrooms, specialists also create opportunities for meaningful interactions that support language practice in real-life contexts. By fostering a balance of speaking, listening, reading and writing activities, they help ELLs develop comprehensive language skills. Progress monitoring and tailored instruction ensure students’ needs are met effectively as they advance through the language acquisition stages
The A-State online Ed.S. in Reading program equips educators with advanced skills to support diverse learners, including English Language Learners. By focusing on language acquisition theories, culturally responsive teaching and evidence-based literacy strategies, the program prepares educators to meet the unique needs of ELLs. Graduates are empowered to create inclusive, effective learning environments and lead literacy initiatives that ensure all students have the opportunity to succeed academically.
Learn more about A-State’s online Ed.S. in Reading program.