Second Language Acquisition

This workshop provides educators with a comprehensive understanding of how a second language is acquired and how this process directly informs effective classroom instruction. Participants explore the stages of language proficiency, including descriptors and characteristics, and examine case studies of actual students. Video clips are used to illustrate key differences in how multilingual learners demonstrate proficiency at various levels. The session also highlights factors that set students and families up for success, bridging theory with practical strategies for classroom application.

• Lack of teacher understanding of the stages of second language acquisition and how they impact learning.
  
  
• Difficulty distinguishing between levels of language proficiency and tailoring instruction accordingly.
  
  
• Challenges translating theory about language acquisition into practical classroom strategies.
  
  
• Limited awareness of family and contextual factors that influence language development and student success.

1. Understanding Stages of Language Acquisition
   Participants will develop knowledge of the stages of language proficiency, learning to recognize and respond to the characteristics of each stage.
   
   
2. Translating Research into Instructional Practice
   Educators will learn to apply case studies, video examples, and descriptors to design instruction that matches students’ current language development.
   
   
3. Supporting Student and Family Success
   Teachers will identify factors that influence language acquisition (such as family, background knowledge, and prior schooling) and integrate strategies to support both students and families in the learning process.