The number of ELL (English Language Learner) students in U.S. schools is increasing at a rapid pace. In fact, ELL students represent the fastest-growing segment of the student population. In just 15 years, the number of ELL students in public schools has nearly doubled to approximately 5 million students.
SOURCE: U.S. Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics, https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator_cgf.asp#info
But while it’s becoming more common to have ELL students in today’s classrooms, educators say they are struggling now more than ever to fulfill the academic and social-emotional needs of this increasingly diverse student group. Teachers cite the lack of high-quality instructional materials that support students' language and academic needs, while at the same time providing the rigor to stay on grade-level. Content is often watered down or not age-appropriate and doesn’t build on the background knowledge students already have. As a result, there is still a persistent skills gap. ELL students consistently graduate at a lower rate than their English-speaking peers, achieve lower literacy scores, and are more likely to struggle with math.
Digital curriculum can help districts close the achievement gap by ensuring students have access to high-quality, rigorous curriculum with the necessary scaffolds and support to build content mastery. Educators can provide a personalized learning experience for every student and monitor progress to make informed decisions regarding instructional intervention.
Take a look at the infographic for more about this growing student population and how districts can use digital curriculum to keep pace with students’ individual learning needs. Find additional ELL resources at www.apexlearning.com/ell.
