Foundations of ELD Instruction Flashcards

Which term describes the stage at which an English learner can use English for academic tasks but may still make grammatical errors under cognitive load?

Answer: Intermediate fluency

Intermediate fluency is characterized by the ability to perform academic tasks in English with some continued errors, especially under complex cognitive demands.

According to Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), what is the optimal instructional target for ELLs?

Answer: Tasks slightly beyond current ability with support

The ZPD represents tasks a student cannot yet do alone but can accomplish with scaffolded support, making it the ideal instructional target.

Which model of ELD instruction separates language development from content instruction, providing English learners with dedicated English language practice?

Answer: Designated ELD

Designated ELD is a protected instructional period focused specifically on developing English language skills, distinct from content-area instruction.

A teacher notices an ELL student who speaks fluently but struggles with writing persuasive essays. This gap most likely reflects a difference between:

Answer: BICS and CALP

BICS (Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills) develops faster than CALP (Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency), which is needed for academic writing tasks.

Which approach to ELD instruction embeds language objectives into content-area lessons so students develop English while learning subject matter?

Answer: Integrated ELD

Integrated ELD embeds English language development within content-area instruction, helping students develop language through meaningful academic contexts.

Which sociocultural factor most significantly affects the rate at which an English learner acquires academic language proficiency?

Answer: Opportunities for meaningful interaction in English

Meaningful interaction in English, including academic discourse and peer collaboration, is one of the most significant sociocultural drivers of language acquisition.

When a student transfers knowledge of narrative text structure from Spanish to English writing, this phenomenon is called:

Answer: Positive transfer

Positive transfer occurs when skills or structures from the first language facilitate learning in the second language, such as transferring text structure knowledge.