English Language Learning

ELL Instructional Pathways

SERP worked with faculty from Stanford University and with the San Francisco Unified School District to investigate the association between the type of instructional pathway ELL students follow and their subsequent academic outcomes and English proficiency. The project primarily investigated the relative impacts (or associations) of four types of ELL instructional pathways (bilingual, dual immersion, English immersion, and newcomer pathways). In addition, the project has explored a number of related questions regarding how, why, for whom, and under what conditions different ELL instructional programs are effective.

Lead Researcher: Sean Reardon, Stanford University

Supports for Academic Language Development

SERP and CREATE (Center for Research on the Educational Achievement and Teaching of English Language Learners) partnered to develop additional resources to support English learners with academic language development. The resource, called Advancing Academic Language for All! (AALA), can be used to support all students who struggle with academic language. AALA promotes greater participation for students using Word Generation Series 3 by providing word study, discussion starters, and background information.

Researchers: Colleen Reutebuch and Vanessa Cortez, University of Texas

Related Public Product:

Academic Language for All! (website update pending)

WORLD Generation

Four units from the SERP 6th grade Social Studies Generation (SoGen) series have been adapted by Sharon Vaughn and her colleagues as part of the work of the Center for the Success of English Learners (CSEL). A rigorous study of the impact of using three or four of these 2-week units in general social studies classrooms indicate improvement in students’ content acquisition and vocabulary across a range of English proficiency levels.

Relevant Paper: Martinez, L.R., Fishstrom, S., Vaughn, S., Capin, P., Andress, T., Francis, D. Supporting Knowledge and Language Acquisition of Secondary Emergent Bilinguals through Social Studies Instruction). First published 19 May, 2024.)

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