Guiding Principles

appendix: about

We started with guiding principles when developing this resource.

This guide was developed using research, resources and understandings that build from research, and grounded in foundational literacy development for K-2nd Multilingual Learner classrooms.

When creating this guide, we centered strategies and resources primarily focused on teaching English to Multilingual Learners.

Particularly, we centered core (Tier 1) instruction in a Multi-Tiered System of support and Tier 1 instruction. The more teachers can integrate strategies and improve Tier 1 practices, the more effective they will be in serving students.

MTSS structures are necessary, but it is important to always start with reflections and improvements on Tier 1 practices.

Our Guiding Principles:

  •  In the initial iteration, the tool focuses on foundational literacy development for K-2nd grade classrooms and includes some resources from early childhood that support learning for those age groups as well. It is important to note that while there are applicable resources, this tool doesn't provide comprehensive information for preschool and younger settings.

  • While the language learning strategies are applicable to all teachers, it doesn't address the specific nuances of teaching reading and writing in languages other than English and Spanish.   Its strategies and resources are primarily geared toward teaching literacy in English while elevating the assets of multilingualism. 

  • There are resources and strategies that focus on teaching literacy in Spanish as examples of authentic language instruction, particularly relevant to Dual Language Instruction programs. While we want this resource to be affirming and supportive, we also acknowledge that it cannot replace home language literacy instruction. 

  • The tool targets K-2nd grade emerging bilinguals for Tier 1 literacy, with some benefits for secondary teachers addressing foundational skill gaps. However, it does not provide in depth resources for secondary multilingual students (I.e. students who are proficient readers in their home language and newcomers to an English classroom setting).  

  • The tool concentrates on Tier 1 integrated ELD instruction, but it is important to note that the tool does not currently provide resources for designated ELD.