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English Language Learners (ELLs) have particular needs that must be met during reading and writing instruction.  Some ELL students come into the classroom able to read and write fluently in their home or native language.  While other ELL students come into the classroom with little to no previous reading and writing skills.  Teachers have to focus on teaching and improving … Read More

ESL newcomers are one of the fastest growing segments of students in the United States’ public school system. For that reason, as educators and school officials, it is important that we help newcomers adjust to ESL instruction. Helping ESL students with phonics, as well as other literacy and language skills better prepares them for school and life. Take a look at some … Read More

As a teacher, you want to showcase the literacy strengths of your students, while enhancing their weaknesses. But how can you do both, especially when your students’ native language is other than English? If you prepare and pace yourself, it can be much easier than you could ever believe. We are here to help you, so here are five research-based reading strategies … Read More

Lectura Books has been publishing and distributing bilingual (English/Spanish) children’s books since 2001. We focus on quality bicultural and bilingual literature to offer Latinos a reflection of their diverse cultures and histories through relevant stories.  The dual language focus allows for Spanish-speaking parents and their children, who are learning English at school, a way to learn language together and be … Read More

English Language Learners (ELLs) account for a significant number of students within the public school system. While Spanish speakers are the largest ELL population, research demonstrates that there are significant numbers of ELL students that speak languages other than Spanish, such as Arabic and Chinese.  The influx of ELLs has created a need for a systematic approach to reading and learning … Read More

The start of the school year will come around sooner than you know it. And, as a parent, you want nothing more than to make sure that your English Learner (EL) child is ready to start on the educational journey of a lifetime. Kindergarten is such a magical time full of learning, so you want to ensure that your child is … Read More

New Mexico’s history is a unique blend of Native American and Spanish cultures.  Sharing stories from New Mexico is a great way to promote diversity in your classroom.  New Mexican tales showcase how both cultures worked together to forge a new identity. English Language Learners (ELLs) may relate to these tales of identity, as they too are learning to work … Read More

Some people believe that learning two languages at the same time is harder than learning one language.  However, that is a huge misconception. Bilingual children develop language abilities differently.  Learning two or more languages at once is not harder than learning one language. Furthermore, it does not cause confusion in children. Children are very intelligent and learn to differentiate between … Read More

Early literacy skills are necessary for school readiness.  However, Spanish-speaking English Language Learners’ (ELLs) literacy skills are in Spanish.  So, how will those skills help them in the classroom?  Typically, Spanish-speaking parents teach kids literacy skills through rhyme, oral language, and by focusing on other school readiness skills such as Alphabetic and print knowledge. ELL children’s early experiences with literacy … Read More