The Center for English Language Learners (ELLs) at AIR

Center

smiling student working on an assignment The core of AIR's work supporting ELLs is done through the Center for English Language Learners.  English language learners (ELLs) face the challenge of acquiring content knowledge in English at the same time as they acquire English as an additional language. These students can be supported by conducting rigorous research and evaluation to improve instruction and learning, evaluating policy to inform decision-making, and enhancing ELL practice at the district, school, and classroom level.

Conducting Rigorous Research

Research related to improving instruction and learning: AIR researchers conduct rigorous studies of instructional interventions in order to determine what works best for ELLs.

Evaluation research: AIR experts evaluate federal, state, and district practices and policies affecting ELLs and craft evidence-based recommendations for policymakers.

Connecting Research to Practice

ELL specialists at AIR provide valuable technical assistance and professional development to help states and districts improve instruction and learning for ELLs. We tailor our services to meet the specific needs of our clients.

Analyzing Policy and Related Work

The policy work of the Center for ELLs currently focuses on analysis of state and federal policies and assistance to federal and state policymakers on issues relevant to ELLs.

Related Projects

Project

Math and English Language Development for English Language Learners: (Project MELD)

Mastering math and the academic language of math is essential for all students, but especially for English Language Learners (ELLs) who are acquiring content knowledge and English proficiency concurrently. The goal of this three-year study is to enable sixth-grade Spanish-speaking ELLs to acquire the skills and knowledge they need to meet the new Common Core State Standards for math and literacy.

Project

Study of English Language Learners in Massachusetts

Research by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has shown that the majority of English language learners (ELLs) who entered Massachusetts public schools in kindergarten were reclassified within three years; however, most still struggled with reading and math in later grades. AIR conducted research and analysis on Massachusetts state data that will provide a profile of ELLs and policy recommendations for improving their outcomes.

Project

English Language Learners - The National Charter School Resource Center

The National Charter School Resource Center’s resources for English language learners are designed for a range of different stakeholders, who might have varied levels of knowledge about ELLs. Target audiences include authorizers, charter management organizations, charter support organizations, charter school developers, and staff and leaders at charter schools that serve ELLs.

Project

ELL Center's Technical Assistance Related to the Common Core State Standards

Currently, staff from the Center for English Language Learners are involved in technical assistance work related to the Common Core.