In today’s diverse classrooms, approximately 5 million English language learners (ELLs) comprise about 10% of the U.S. K-12 student population. These students face unique challenges as they work to master both a new language and literacy skills. Often placed in high-stakes learning environments, ELLs navigate these situations without fully understanding the English language, making schoolwork feel daunting and potentially leading to a reluctance to read.
Beanstack offers educators tailored tools and resources to support ELLs on their reading journeys. By creating a low-stakes environment for reading, Beanstack fosters high-impact results. Instead of being told what to read and how to engage with it, students can choose books that interest them. This sense of autonomy is crucial for developing reading stamina and nurturing a genuine love for literature.
Fosters a Love for Reading
Helping ELLs succeed begins with sparking their interest in reading. Reading is vital for English language learners' language acquisition, comprehension, and cultural understanding. Studies show that increased exposure to reading can improve language skills, with students who read frequently in English achieving up to 26% higher proficiency than their peers who read less often. Encouraging students to explore books that captivate them builds a foundation for classroom success as reading appreciation grows—from enjoyment to self-reflection and eventually to a deeper understanding of literature as an art form.
With customizable reading challenges and the flexibility to log any book, no matter the language, Beanstack lets educators track progress and inspire a lasting love for reading. This approach helps ELL students develop essential language skills while discovering the joy and empowerment of reading.
See how Bethune Academy is using Beanstack to support their ELL students.
Offers Personalized Reading Experiences
Beanstack’s reporting features and accessible digital reading logs allow educators and librarians to make personalized book recommendations that align with each student’s interests and reading level. Educators can suggest books that resonate with English language learners by examining students' reading patterns, creating a more engaging and enjoyable reading experience. This targeted approach boosts reading confidence and nurtures a genuine love for reading, helping ELLs develop language skills in a meaningful, exciting way.
Like all students, ELLs must experience the joy of reading. Without this, their ability to improve their reading skills becomes more challenging. Beanstack is crucial in helping ELLs succeed by nurturing a love for reading and providing a supportive environment.
Provides Engaging Challenges and Rewards
Beanstack’s gamified approach transforms reading into an adventure. Students can track their progress and celebrate milestones through engaging reading challenges and rewards, making the experience interactive and enjoyable. For ELLs who struggle with confidence, succeeding in Beanstack by earning badges and completing challenges offers the chance to be celebrated for their effort, regardless of their reading level. Acknowledging their progress helps them develop reading stamina, build motivation, and feel proud of their accomplishments. In addition, peer recommendations foster a sense of community, while writing reviews strengthen comprehension skills. Altogether, this supportive environment inspires a love for reading and a growing confidence that goes beyond the classroom.
Builds Vocabulary and Confidence Through Read-Alouds
An especially helpful option in Beanstack for teachers of younger students is the ability to log class read-alouds. Listening to a fluent reader helps ELL students improve their vocabulary and pronunciation, allowing them to hear words in context and practice accurate intonation.
Teacher-led read-alouds also support comprehension by allowing the teacher to break down, or “chunk,” the reading into manageable parts. Students absorb information gradually, while visual aids and interactive discussions provide further context. Read-alouds enhance language skills and build background knowledge across various topics, giving ELL students the tools to better understand and engage with their reading. By logging these activities in Beanstack, teachers celebrate these shared reading experiences as milestones, reinforcing students'’ progress and boosting their confidence.
Encourages Family Involvement
Strong home-to-school connections are key to ELL success. Beanstack makes it easy for families to participate by offering tools that allow educators to share reading logs, highlight reading growth, and recommend books. This collaboration supports language development as students practice reading and discussing books in English and their native languages. Whether families read in English or their native language, the most important goal is fostering a shared love of reading.
As an added benefit, many public libraries provide valuable resources for adult ELLs, including language classes, reading groups, and community events that promote learning and connection. They likely offer Beanstack to their community, too! Families can strengthen their reading skills together by taking advantage of these resources.
Tracks Progress and Growth
Tracking progress is crucial for understanding ELL reading development. With Beanstack’s Lexile Insights feature, educators can assess reading growth and evolving interests over time. Detailed reports highlight areas of strength and where additional support may be needed. This data-driven approach empowers educators to provide targeted instruction, ensuring every student receives the support they need to thrive.
Supports All Readers
Beanstack is committed to supporting English language learners on their path to literacy. By offering personalized reading experiences, engaging challenges, and a wealth of resources, Beanstack helps educators create an environment where ELLs can grow and succeed. The option to track reading by minutes fosters a more accurate representation of each student’s progress, acknowledging that fluency develops at varying rates. As schools continue to embrace diversity and inclusion, tools like Beanstack ensure that every student has the opportunity to develop a love for reading and reach their full potential. Investing in ELLs’ literacy journeys enriches their educational experience and the classroom community.
Contact our team today to learn more about how Beanstack can support your students!