What is a critical component for ELL students to succeed as they progress in their education?

Literacy instruction in a student’s first language (L1) is crucial for English Language Learners (ELL) as it provides a solid foundation on which they can build their second language skills. When ELL students receive support in their native language, they can better understand complex concepts, academic vocabulary, and sentence structures. This strengthens their overall cognitive skills and promotes a smoother transition into learning a new language. Additionally, by fostering literacy in L1, students maintain a sense of cultural identity and connection, which can increase their motivation and engagement in the learning process.

In contrast, while participation in sports can enhance teamwork and social skills, it does not directly address language learning needs. Similarly, focusing exclusively on using English in class might hinder students' comfort and confidence, as they may struggle to express themselves fully without the support of their native language. Lastly, completing homework in a second language (L2) can be beneficial, but without a solid understanding of the concepts in their first language, students may face challenges that impede their progress. Therefore, literacy instruction in L1 serves as a critical component for their educational success.