Teachers of English to Students of Other Languages (TESOL), a professional organization to develop and maintain professional expertise in English language teaching and learning for speakers of other languages worldwide, recently release a Position Paper on Language and Literacy Development for Young English Language Learners focused on children who speak a language other than English at home and are entering school environments where English is the principal medium of instruction.
The following features of effective early literacy programs are recommended for young ESOL students are based on research in early literacy development and second language acquisition:
- Oral language and literacy development is supported by the student’s native language.
- Literacy learning in English is an on-going process that requires time and appropriate support.
- Instruction and materials are culturally and developmentally appropriate.
- Literacy programs are meaning-based and balanced.
- Assessment is reliable, valid, and ongoing.
- Professional preparation and development is continually provided for educators regarding linguistic and cultural diversity.
