In this latest episode of 5 Takes, Head of Curriculum Support, Daniela Selhuber shares practical strategies for supporting multilingual learners.

Take 1: Establish a Clear, Shared Framework for Language Development Clarity and consistency are key. Schools that adopt frameworks such as the Bell Foundation EAL Assessment Framework or WIDA can move from reactive provision to proactive and targeted support.

A shared framework:

• Provides precise language to describe proficiency (e.g. “developing in speaking and listening but at an early stage in reading and writing”).
• Prevents overestimating social fluency (BICS) or underestimating academic needs (CALP).
• Equips all staff to scaffold learning, not just EAL specialists (Lucas & Villegas, 2013).
• Strengthens formative assessment across speaking, listening, reading, and writing (Heritage, 2008).
• Makes EAL inclusion visible at a systems level (OECD, 2018).

Take 2: Know the Learner Behind the Language EAL learners are more than proficiency levels. Two learners at the same English stage may have very different profiles depending on literacy in their first language or prior schooling.

Understanding learner backgrounds avoids a “one size fits all” approach. Collaboration between class teachers and EAL specialists combines subject and language expertise. First languages should be viewed as assets: using them for processing ideas, drafting, and vocabulary building accelerates English learning and affirms identity.

Take 3: Scaffold, Do Not Simplify Lowering challenge lowers expectations. Learners need access, not easier work. Scaffolding strategies include:

• Graphic organisers to structure ideas.
• Talk partners for oral rehearsal.
• Visuals and realia to anchor concepts.
• Pre-teaching vocabulary to reduce load.
• Sentence stems to support academic talk and writing.

Cummins’ quadrant model shows the most effective learning is cognitively demanding but well supported. Scaffolding, like building supports, is temporary and removed once learners are independent.

Take 4: Prioritise Oracy Talk is the bridge to literacy and wider learning. Before writing, learners need to rehearse orally and practise new vocabulary.

Effective strategies:

• Talk partners to rehearse answers.
• Sentence stems to structure contributions (“I agree with…”).
• Structured discussions, debates, and role play for authentic practice.

Research shows exploratory talk supports higher order thinking (Mercer & Dawes, 2008) and that improving oracy boosts attainment (EEF, 2016). Oracy also fosters wellbeing and belonging by giving learners a voice.

Take 5: Celebrate Multilingualism Multilingualism is an asset, not a deficit. Learners who use multiple languages develop unique perspectives, problem solving skills, and empathy.

Ways to celebrate languages:

• Stock dual language books in libraries.
• Use signage that reflects community languages.
• Host heritage language days.
• Encourage home language writing projects.
• Greet students in their first language.

Celebrating multilingualism affirms identity, increases belonging, and strengthens engagement. Research confirms strong first language skills support second language acquisition and cognitive development (Cummins, 2000).