In today’s classrooms, many students are learning to read in a language that isn’t their first. For multilingual learners (MLs), developing literacy in English can be both challenging and deeply rewarding.Fortunately, the Science of Reading (SoR)—a robust body of research from cognitive science, linguistics, and education—offers effective, evidence-based strategies to support all readers, including MLs. SoR emphasizes that reading must be explicitly taught through five essential components: phonics, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, fluency, and comprehension.
Here are key best practices to help multilingual learners thrive:
1. Strengthen Oral Language First
Before students can read well, they need to understand the language they’re reading. Oral language development is the foundation for comprehension.
How to support this:
• Prioritize academic and content vocabulary.
• Use structured conversation, storytelling, and listening activities like read-alouds, songs, and poems.
• Build confidence through rich oral interactions—these skills lead directly to stronger reading comprehension.
2. Teach Phonics & Phonemic Awareness Explicitly
Many MLs come from language backgrounds with different writing systems or sound patterns. Clear, direct instruction helps them connect sounds to letters and decode words confidently.
Tips for effective instruction:
• Use systematic, explicit phonics programs.
• Incorporate multisensory activities (e.g., tapping out sounds, using manipulatives).
• Recognize and leverage transferable skills from students’ first languages.
3. Build Background Knowledge & Make Learning Culturally Relevant
Students understand more when they can relate to what they read. Making content meaningful is key to building comprehension.
What helps:
• Use visuals, discussions, and translations to support meaning.
• Select culturally responsive texts that reflect students’ lives.
• Scaffold lessons with supports like sentence frames and graphic organizers.
4. Provide Explicit Vocabulary Instruction
A strong vocabulary is essential for comprehension—especially academic and high-frequency words.
Best practices include:
• Teach vocabulary explicitly and repeatedly.
• Use word maps, context clues, and real-life examples.
• Engage students in meaningful conversations using new words.
• Pair words with visuals and actions to deepen understanding.
5. Assess with Purpose
Traditional assessments can overlook MLs’ true abilities. Choose tools that recognize the role of language and offer a fuller picture of progress.
Consider:
• Using multiple measures, including home language assessments when possible.
• Monitoring progress regularly to inform instruction—not to mislabel.
• Looking at growth over time, not just proficiency snapshots.
6. Honor the First Language as a Strength
Skills in a student’s first language can support their English literacy. Multilingualism isn’t a barrier—it’s a resource.
Ways to support this:
• Encourage reading and writing in the home language.
• Share bilingual books.
• Invite families and students to share their cultures and languages in class.
7. Create a Culturally Inclusive Learning Environment
When we combine the Science of Reading with culturally and linguistically responsive teaching, we create a space where all students can thrive.
Build inclusion by:
• Celebrating diverse languages and cultures.
• Using diverse literature, visuals, and examples.
• Encouraging students to share their stories, traditions, and customs.
• Acknowledging and celebrating multilingual achievements.
Let’s shift our focus from “learning English” to learning through English—and beyond. With the right supports in place, multilingual learners can grow into confident, capable readers in any language.
