Supporting Multilingual Learners in the Classroom

The SIOP® Model is a research-based instructional framework that supports language development alongside content instruction. The components and features of the model serve as a blueprint for developing lessons that meet the linguistic needs of multilingual learners/ English learners at various levels of language proficiency while also maintaining high expectations for grade-level content instruction. The SIOP® Model provides teachers with a structure for success, but it also leaves space for teachers to maintain agency in making instructional decisions to meet the needs of their particular learners.

What the SIOP® authors share throughout the four SIOP® Sessions in the Savvas Fresh Ideas Podcast series is a beautiful combination of ideas and techniques that have stood the test of time but also continue to be relevant in our ever-changing educational landscape. In my personal experience as a classroom teacher, a language specialist working with small groups, a co-teacher in general education classrooms, and virtual teacher during the pandemic, SIOP® has consistently been foundational to my instruction.

Having the chance to chat with SIOP® authors Dr. Jana Echevarría, Dr. MaryEllen Vogt, and Dr. Deborah Short about supporting multilingual learners in the classroom was an experience I never imagined I would have. I can remember showing video clips of the authors talking about the SIOP® Model in my courses at Portland State University long before I ever had the chance to meet them. I am so thankful for the opportunities I have had to connect and learn from them. Between the array of informative texts they’ve published, the blog posts they’ve written about current educational topics, and their keynotes at the annual SIOP® National Conference, their wisdom has greatly impacted my instruction and competence for teaching multilingual learners. It was an honor to engage with them as the host for the Savvas Fresh Ideas Podcast SIOP® Sessions. I also enjoyed an additional layer of reflection by going back and listening to the different parts of the conversation during my commute to work. We hope that you enjoy the podcast episodes and that they provide you with takeaways that support both you and your students.

Learn more about the SIOP Model for your school or district today >

Note: Fresh Ideas for Teaching blog contributors have been compensated for sharing personal teaching experiences on our blog. The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer or company.