Listen online at http://shop.ascd.org/mp3/el_April_2009.mp3

Closing the achievement gap for English language learners requires looking closely at who they are.

Contradictions flourish when we vote on what makes effective practice. Research is what we need.

Educators can create a linguistically plural learning environment, even without bilingual instruction.

Strategies for helping students understand challenging academic vocabulary.

Five practices that help schools improve educational achievement for teens.

Selecting books focused on one subject or by one author makes reading inviting rather than impenetrable.

Explicit teaching of English during portions of the school day hastens mastery of the language.

What happens when an undocumented student decides to go to college?

Students become bilingual and biliterate when they enroll in dual language programs.

The authors describe a Young Interpreters program, a writing club for girls, and a family outreach program.

What do award-winning schools have in common?

Teaching students how to start discussions, build on ideas, and apply ideas to life.

Educators need to look beyond categories to see the communities from which kids come.

Practical suggestions for improving parent participation at school

Watch an interview with W. James Popham at www.ascd.org/el.

Listen online at http://shop.ascd.org/mp3/el_April_2009_Reeves.mp3