Integrating science and literacy instruction for English language learners

The question addressed in this project is, what are some research-supported strategies for teaching science and literacy that, once integrated, improve achievement for English language learners (ELL) while accelerating language acquisition? The population of ELL students in United States schools is growing rapidly. While striving to help all students pass high-stakes standardized tests, teachers must instruct ELL students both in the language and several content areas. Science is one content area that shares many characteristics with literacy and language instruction. The author outlines several methods of effective instruction in language acquisition and science. The project ends with a unit of study that integrates science and literacy instruction. Combining science and literacy not only helps students prepare for tests, but also improves their ability to solve problems and think critically in both school and the world beyond