WIDA Amplified Standards

When it comes to teacher, there are so many standards to follow. It is sometimes is hard to keep them straight. Below I have discussed why WIDA Amplified Standards are important in schools, and some practical applications for the classroom.


Relevance

The 2012 WIDA amplified standards are relevant to schools because it is cross curricular. There is a focus on a connection of communication in information, ideas and concepts in all academic areas (social, language arts, math, science, and social studies). There are 5 standards that were found in this book. The first one focuses on social and instructional language. This is to focus on an instructional setting and peer interaction. Standards 2-5 focus on academic areas. This could include academic discussion and use of textbooks. One major difference that is noted between the amplified standards and the Can Do is the amplified standards only go to level 5 instead of 6, because it is now considered proficient at a level 5.

 

Practical Applications:

When interacting with English learners, it is sometimes difficult to communicate to which they comprehend. The graph found on pages 8-9 help break down this barrier. For example, if you have a student on a Level 5, you are able to recognize that on a sentence level they are able to use a wide range of sentence structures. These standards are similar to the Can Do because it shows what the student is capable of at their level, and what is needed to push them to the next level. Applications that can help move English learning students can include “realia, manipulatives, pictures/photographs, illustrations, diagrams, drawings, charts, graphic organizers, videos, films, models and figures, tables, graphs, timelines, and numberlines.” (figure K pg 11). Students are also recommended “interactive supports” such as working in small groups, pairs, mentors.

WIDA Consortium. (2012). The English Language Development Standards.Board of Regent of the University of Wisconsin System.