Centering Ells in the Science of Reading (Quick Reference Guide)

Language and literacy experts Aileen Hower and Pérsida Himmele establish the responsive teaching practices that are essential for students who are simultaneously learning to speak and read in a new language.

Although the science of reading has made great strides in connecting literacy research to teaching practice, one aspect is often missing from the conversation--how to provide effective reading instruction for English language learners (ELLs).

The science of reading emphasizes core foundational reading skills: oral language development, phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, academic vocabulary, and reading comprehension. But ELLs are learning a language and developing literacy at the same time, and teachers may need to provide additional support by

- Offering opportunities for language development.
- Assessing and leveraging students’ background knowledge.
- Building students’ academic vocabulary.
- Intentionally focusing on word- and text-level comprehension.
- Promoting active interaction with text.
- Appreciating students’ linguistic, academic, and experiential knowledge.

Centering ELLs in the Science of Reading provides multiple strategies to develop lesson plans and tailor instruction for ELLs. With this quick reference guide, teachers can create a language-rich classroom environment that consistently and deliberately immerses students in ways that connect the content to each learner.

8.5＂ x 11＂ 3-panel foldout guide (6 pages), laminated for extra durability and 3-hole-punched for binder storage.