Strong literacy outcomes for dual language students rely on applying the Science of Reading through explicit, evidence-based instruction tailored to both Spanish and English—and ensuring instructional resources meet the unique needs of biliteracy development.
Foundations: Science of Reading for Dual Language Instruction
Advancing literacy in dual language classrooms requires explicit, systematic teaching of core reading components—including phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension—grounded in a robust body of cognitive science and linguistics research. Key pedagogical elements include:
- Direct, structured instruction in both languages, tailored to each language’s unique orthographic and grammatical features.
- Support for cross-linguistic transfer, recognizing that skills developed in one language, like phonological awareness or grammatical understanding, often strengthen the other.
- Emphasizing translanguaging and language bridging, encouraging students to use their full linguistic resources to deepen comprehension and metalinguistic awareness.
- Teaching using authentic, culturally relevant texts matched to students’ experiences and linguistic development.
A strong literacy block for dual language students also integrates purposeful comparison of the similarities and differences across languages, strengthens cognitive flexibility, and affirms students’ language identities.
Addressing Instructional Needs
Dual language instruction must balance and integrate:
- The need for systematic phonics in Spanish and English, accounting for differences in orthographic transparency.
- Developing oracy alongside decoding and comprehension, as spoken language skills enhance literacy across both languages.
- Providing teachers with professional development and authentic materials tailored specifically for dual language settings, rather than relying solely on translated resources.
Solutions: Avanza and Boost
As educators seek resources that address these pedagogical needs, Avanza and Boost stand out as research-aligned solutions for K–8 dual language students.
Avanza and Boost offer a seamless pathway supporting biliteracy development in Spanish and English. These programs feature:
- Structured literacy activities in both languages with explicit instruction in phonological awareness, decoding, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- Materials designed specifically for Spanish and English, not merely translations, ensuring instructional integrity for each language.
- Data-driven progress monitoring, professional support, and culturally relevant content that accelerates both language acquisition and academic achievement.
With targeted instructional support and proven outcomes, Avanza and Boost allow schools to apply the Science of Reading with fidelity and cultural responsiveness. They help K–8 dual language learners thrive through evidence-based literacy pathways designed for real-world bilingual classrooms.
Also read:
Supporting Newcomers Using the Science of Reading
Building Strong Readers: Practical Tips for Applying the Science of Reading
