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Enhance Your Ability to Provide Instruction to Students Learning to Read in English
Spend 3 days in Washington, DC, at one of our Training of Trainers (TOT) institutes on teaching reading to students with language backgrounds other than English.

What's Different? Training of Trainers Institutes
October 25 – 27, 2011
November 30 – December 2, 2011
A graduate credit option is also available.
Learn more and register.
August 2011

2011 CREATE Conference:
Educating Middle School English Language Learners for College and Career Readiness
November 3 – 4, 2011
Austin, TX

Top scholars in the field will highlight current research on methods for building the literacy skills and oral language development of English language learners across the content areas.
Learn more.
July 2011

Integrating Performance Assessment Into World Language Learning and Teaching
Through the Language Acquisition Research Center, CAL staff member Margaret Malone delivered a webinar on the purposes and uses of performance assessment in world language classrooms.
Learn more.
June 2011

ELL-U Training Workshop: Developing Oral Proficiency in Adults Learning English
June 25, 2011, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
CAL adult ESL education staff are working with ELL-U, a professional development network for educators working with adult English language learners, to provide workshops and training on topics of interest to the field. Miriam Burt and Sarah Young will facilitate an ELL-U training event in June. Visit the ELL-U website to learn more and register.
June 2011

LARC Webinar: Integrating Performance Assessment into World Language Learning and Teaching
CAL staff member, Margaret Malone, presented on the purposes and uses for performance assessment in world language classrooms. Learn more.
May 2011

Language Diversity, School Learning, and Closing Achievement Gaps:
A Workshop Summary
This report summarizes presentations and discussions from a workshop convened by the National Research Council in October 2009. The workshop was designed to seek expert insight into the issues that surround the study of language, academic learning, and achievement gaps. This report also highlights the differing viewpoints on what available research findings might imply for future research and practice. Learn more.
May 2011

Workshop on Language Program Evaluation
Through the National Capital Language Resource Center (NCLRC), CAL staff will be conducting a summer workshop for language educators.

May 26-27 Language Program Evaluation
Registration: Before May 1: $225; Regular: $250
Learn about different methodologies and designs used in language program evaluation. Topics covered include the basic principles of planning for an evaluation, defining expectations, collecting data, and planning for analysis and reporting.

Please visit the NCRLC website for more information or to register for this workshop.
April 2011

Enhancing Practice with Early English Language Learners
CAL Board of Trustee member, Fred Genesee, and CAL staff member, Jen Himmel, will be presenting at this free one-day conference on specific educational issues regarding early English language learners held April 29, 2011 at Princeton University. Learn more. Learn more.
March 2011

Panel discussion on French Immersion Programs in the United States
Nancy Rhodes, Director of CAL’s foreign language education division, participated in a panel discussion on French Immersion Programs in the United States, sharing the results of the recent survey of foreign language education in the United States and audio of students in immersion classes. Held at the French Embassy on March 2, 2011, this event is part of the Francophonie 2011 Cultural Festival held in Washington DC, March 2-April 15, 2011. Learn more about Francophonie 2011. Visit CAL’s foreign language education web pages.
March 2011

Nieto elected American Educational Research Association Fellow
CAL Board of Trustee member, Sonia Nieto, was selected as an AERA fellow by the American Educational Research Association. The AERA Fellows Program honors education researchers with substantial research accomplishments. The fellowship conveys the Association’s commitment to excellence in research and emphasizes to new scholars the importance of sustained research in the field of education. Nieto will be installed in the AERA’s 2011 Class of Fellows on April 9, 2011 during the AERA’s Annual Meeting in New Orleans.
Learn more.
March 2011

2011 Institute Dates Announced
Institutes on Teaching Reading to English Language Learners
Featuring What's Different About Teaching Reading to Students Learning English?
To meet the growing demand from K–8 educators for training materials on teaching reading to English language learners, CAL continues to offer its successful institutes in Washington, DC, in 2011. Diane August, noted CAL researcher and scholar, will provide an introduction about reading and English language learners at each Training of Trainers institute. Visit our website to learn more and register.
March 2011

Mark Your Calendars for the 2011 CREATE Conference
Educating Middle School English Language Learners for College and Career Readiness. November 3 – 4, 2011, Austin, TX.

The 2011 CREATE capstone conference will highlight current research on methods for building literacy skills and oral language development for English language learners across the content areas. CREATE researchers will describe their work on a school-wide intervention targeting seventh-grade English language learners in science, social studies, English language arts, and math. Learn more.
March 2011

Heritage Language Spotlight: Chinese
The Alliance for the Advancement of Heritage Languages periodically creates Heritage Language Spotlight web pages that focus on select heritage languages. Visit the new web pages that highlight the Chinese language.
February 2011

New working group focuses on support for English language learners
The Madison Academic Language Working Group was formed to advance support for the language learning and achievement of English learner (EL) students and expand educators’ awareness of academic language. Representing CAL are founding members Diane August, Dorry Kenyon, David MacGregor, and Deborah Short. A new website has been launched that will provide information and updates from the group. Learn more.
February 2011

Christian receives Lifetime Service Award from the Linguistics Society of America
The Linguistics Society of America (LSA) presented Donna Christian with the Victoria A. Fromkin Lifetime Service Award at its annual meeting in January 2011. This award was established to recognize individuals who have performed extraordinary service to the Society and the discipline throughout their career.
January 2011

New Language Policy Research Network website launched
CAL is pleased to host the Language Policy Research Network (LPREN), created by the Association Internationale de Linguistique Appliquée, (the International Association of Applied Linguistics) Research Networks committee in 2006. Learn more.
January 2011

Assessment Training OnLine (ATOL) course
The Center for Applied Linguistics is pleased to announce that the Assessment Training OnLine (ATOL) course is now open for enrollment. Please visit the ATOL page to learn more about the course and register at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/PHHF3ZN before December 31.
December 2010

TIRF conducting study of English language training programs
TIRF – The International Research Foundation for English Language Education – is conducting a study of English language training programs for the 21st Century workforce (people who must use English in businesses, industries and professions). The foundation is soliciting both case reports about particular training programs and applications for the position of author of the final study.
December 2010

Statement on the Critical Need for Foreign Language Education in the United States.
Our nation’s capacity to maintain national security, promote international cooperation, compete effectively in a global economy, and enhance our domestic well-being depends on our ability to communicate effectively in other languages and across cultures. In response to the findings of CAL’s recent survey of foreign language education in U.S. schools, CAL’s Board of Trustees has issued a statement concerning the vital importance of foreign language education and calls on all stakeholders to work collaboratively to address this critical issue.
Read the statement.
November 2010

21st Century Competencies: Exploring Knowledge and Skills for Success
As part of International Education Week, CAL staff members Miriam Burt and Amber Gallup Rodriguez worked on a project to develop Wiki pages on Skills for Success in Multinational Business. CAL collaborated with Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), with support from the U.S. Department of Education, TESOL, and Synergy, to make this resource available online. Learn more
November 2010

Bernard Spolsky Named 2010 Ferguson Fellow
Dr. Benard Spolsky is a distinguished scholar in applied linguistics, with particular expertise in educational linguistics, language policy and management, and language assessment. In 2000, he was appointed Professor Emeritus at Bar-Ilan University in Israel, following an illustrious career and many contributions to the field. He also served on CAL’s Board of Trustees from 1978 to 1980. Dr. Spolsky will be in residence at CAL from October through December 2010.

The Charles A. Ferguson Fellowship was established in honor of CAL's founder and first director. This fellowship allows CAL to invite senior scholars in applied linguistics to spend time in residence at CAL pursuing their own work and advising on CAL Projects.
October 2010

Dialect Resources: Talking NC
Educational Media From the North Carolina Language and Life Project
North Carolina is one of the most linguistically diverse states in the United States, reflecting a wide variety of regional and sociocultural English dialects as well as an assortment of ancestral and immigrant languages. The North Carolina Language and Life Project (NCLLP) has developed a series of documentaries and related publications on language variation in North Carolina and the American South. Walt Wolfram, former Chair of CAL’s Board of Trustees, has directed the development and distribution of these valuable resources. Browse the dialect resources.
October 2010

Ebonics: The Urban Education Debate, 2nd Edition
This collection of papers is an excellent addition to the literature on African American Vernacular English, written in a clear style that makes it accessible to all those interested in the language and education of African American children. Learn more.
October 2010

Meet CAL President - Dr. Terrence G. Wiley
CAL’s new president took office on October 1, 2010. An internationally recognized researcher and sought-after scholar in the field of applied linguistics, Dr. Wiley brings to CAL a strong professional academic background along with a proven management style that empowers and motivates. Learn more about Dr. Wiley.
October 2010

Resources for Practitioners Working With Adults Learning English
CAL has been a leader in the education of adult English language learners for over 30 years. Our website provides a variety of relevant resources for working with these learners, including free summaries of evidence-based information to help instructors and program administrators facilitate English language acquisition for adult learners. Our experienced staff know the challenges faced by adult ESL teachers and program administrators, and we offer a range of professional development and technical assistance services that focus on improving educational opportunities for and the success of adult English language learners. We invite you to contact us to learn more about how CAL can work with you to meet the needs of your program. Learn more.
October 2010

Effective English Literacy Instruction for English Learners SchoolsMovingUp Webinar
October 27, 2010 1:30 – 3:00 pm
Diane August, a senior research scientist at CAL, and Timothy Shanahan, a professor of urban education at the University of Illinois, Chicago, will lead an upcoming webinar in the SchoolsMovingUp series hosted by WestEd. They will focus on approaches to literacy instruction for English learners from their chapter in Improving Education for English Learners: Research-Based Approaches published this year by the California Department of Education. Dr. August and Dr. Shanahan are also the editors of Developing Literacy in Second-Language Learners: Report of the National Literacy Panel on Language-Minority Children and Youth. Visit the SchoolsMovingUp website for more information and to register.
October 2010

Language, Diversity, and Learning: Lessons for Education in the 21st Century
Language is powerful. How a nation deals with language differences says a great deal about the status of people who speak particular languages in that society. E pluribus unum (out of many, one), the bedrock of U.S. society, is based on the belief that our nation should be simultaneously supportive of pluralism and dedicated to unity. Read this digest.
September 2010

Coaching Language Teachers
This digest introduces the topic of coaching language teachers in a way that is responsive to the complex, varied, and dynamic landscapes of language classrooms, describes three dimensions of coaching discourse that can shape dialogues among coaches and language teachers, and presents some general advice for coaches. Read this digest.
September 2010

New CREATE Brief
Improving Science and Vocabulary Learning of English Language Learners
This brief reviews previous research related to the development of science knowledge and academic language in English language learners as well as the role of general English language proficiency, learning in a second language, and first language knowledge in science learning. It also describes two successful CREATE interventions that build general academic and discipline-specific vocabulary and science knowledge in English language learners. Learn more.
September 2010

Improving Education for English Learners: Research-Based Approaches
This new publication, just released from the California Department of Education, addresses critical questions for educators about optimizing English language and literacy development and content instruction. CAL contributors include Diane August, Deborah Short, and CAL Trustee, Fred Genesee. Learn more.
August 2010

Using Oral Language Skills to Build on the Emerging Literacy of Adult English Learners
This brief reviews the research, describes ways to capitalize on adult learners’ oral skills to create successful literacy learning experiences, and suggests areas for further research to bolster the knowledge base in working with adult second language learners who are in the process of becoming literate. Learn more.

Expanding Educational Opportunities in Ghana: Bilingualism and Biliteracy for Young Learners
CAL partnered with the Education Development Center (EDC) on a USAID-funded project - Education Quality for All (EQUALL) - to improve the quality of primary literacy education in Ghana. CAL led development of literacy standards and milestones, completed ESL pupil books, and contributed to teachers’ guides for biliteracy education. Learn more about this project.
July 2010

STARTALK Multimedia Teacher Workshop Collection
This collection features 12 online, multimedia workshops designed for language educators to improve their skills in critical areas. CAL’s contribution to the collection, Assessment for Language Instructors: The Basics, is a computer-based workshop that focuses on assessment training for language educators. Learn more.
July 2010

2010 Sheikh Nahayan Doctoral Dissertation Fellowships
TIRF (The International Foundation for English Language Education)is sponsoring the 2010 Sheikh Nahayan Fellowships for doctoral research on English language and teaching in the Arab World. TIRF is soliciting proposals from doctoral candidates who have completed their course work and have had a research plan approved by their faculty advisor or committee. The proposal submission deadline is September 30, 2010. Learn more.
July 2010

Research on the Literacy and Language Development of Spanish-Speaking English Language Learners
The Vocabulary Instruction and Assessment for Spanish Speakers (VIAS) project is a 5-year program of research on the literacy and language development of Spanish-speaking English language learners. VIAS researchers are working to chart developmental trajectories in literacy and literacy-related language skills for these learners, develop and evaluate methods to enhance their vocabulary development, and develop tools for assessing their vocabulary skills. Visit the website.
June 2010

Language Phrasebooks
These phrasebooks were developed by CAL to serve as a handy reference for newly arrived residents of the United States. Each phrasebook includes English phrases used in daily activities along with their equivalent in the user’s native language. No longer available in print, the phrasebooks are now available online in PDF format in the following languages: Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian, Chinese, Czech, Haitian, Hungarian, Polish, Russian, Somali, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Learn more.
June 2010

CAELA Network State Activities
Learn about the professional development goals, activities, and resources of the 12 states participating in the CAELA Network. All states and practitioners working with adult English language learners can access the resources of CAL and the CAELA Network Web site. Learn more.
May 2010

Incorporating EL/Civics Content into the Adult ESL Classroom
This online resource provides a series of courses developed to assist teachers in creating interesting, effective ESL lessons in the areas of U.S. history, U.S. government, civic engagement, and the naturalization process. Learn more.
May 2010

Forbidden Language: English Learners and Restrictive Language Policies
This publication from Teachers College Press pulls together recent research on the effects of restrictive language policies on English language learners, with a focus on what is known about outcomes in states where these policies have been adopted. An overview of English language learners in the United States and a brief history of policies that have guided their instruction provides background to the discussion of issues related to these policies. Learn more.
April 2010

Working Group on ELL Policy
The Working Group on ELL Policy, a group of researchers with extensive experience in the education of English language learners (ELLs), has prepared a set of recommendations for the reauthorization of the federal Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). The Working Group’s recommendations cover five core areas of ESEA policy and focus on improving education outcomes for English language learners. Learn more.
April 2010

New Adult ESL Assessments Web Site Launched
CAL is pleased to announce the launch of an enhanced Web site for our adult ESL assessments, BEST Plus and BEST Literacy. The site was redesigned to provide comprehensive information about our assessments for both prospective and current users and to share other resources of interest to all working with adult English language learners. Visit the Web site.
April 2010

New SIOP Lesson Plans Posted for Educators
CAL is expanding its collection of teacher-developed SIOP materials with updates of lesson plans from our current research and professional development projects. Read the lesson plans.
March 2010

New CAL Solutions Web Site Launched
Visit the new Web site, which combines a new logo and look with a framework that makes it easier to find and share information and resources useful to practitioners working with English language learners in PreK-12. Visit the Web site.
March 2010

Resources About Haiti Available Online
Free resources about Haiti are available online, including a culture profile, The Haitians: Their History and Culture, and a Haitian-Creole phrasebook.
View the resources
February 2010

The Heritage Program Funding Guide
The Heritage Program Funding Guide was developed by the Alliance for the Advancement of Heritage Languages to guide community-based heritage language programs in their efforts to seek funding for program activities. The process is designed for those with limited experience searching for and soliciting grant funding. Learn more.
February 2010

CAL Board of Trustees Announces Presidential Search
The Board of Trustees of the Center of Applied Linguistics announces a search for President of CAL. Donna Christian is leaving the position of President after 15 years of exemplary service. The Board and staff of the Center for Applied Linguistics are grateful to Dr. Christian for all her many contributions to CAL and for her continuing support and assistance during the transition process. Read the position announcement.
February 2010

CAL Expands Online Resource Archive
As part of CAL's 50th anniversary celebration in 2009, we undertook an initiative to expand the archive of online resources. We are continuing that initiative this year to provide our Web visitors with easy access to foundational resources that would otherwise be difficult to find. Visit the archive.
January 2010

Secondary Newcomer Programs in the U.S. (2008-2009)
CAL has published a searchable online database of newcomer programs in secondary schools in the United States. The database includes profiles of more than 60 programs that participated in our newcomer research study, “Exemplary Programs for Newcomer English Language Learners at the Secondary Level,” for the 2008-2009 school year. Search the database.
January 2010

NCELA Webinar: Implementing Professional Development for Content Area Teachers with ELLs
CAL Research Associate, Jennifer Himmel, provided an overview of the SIOP Model and presented ways in which the model is being effectively implemented to help ELLs succeed in the content area classroom. View or download the webinar at the NCELA website
December 2009

CAL Releases Results From National K-12 Foreign Language Survey
Cal has released the results of the national survey of foreign language instruction in public and private elementary and secondary schools. Foreign Language Teaching in U.S. Schools: Results of a National Survey is now available. Visit the project web page to read about the survey, download an executive summary, and order a copy.
November 2009

Teaching Reading to English Language Learner-Institutes Set for 2010
In response to growing requests from K-8 educators for training materials on teaching reading to English language learners, CAL will offer four institutes in Washington, DC, in 2010. Learn more or register.
October 2009

New Web Site Launched on Early Language Assessments
CAL has launched a new web site that focuses on language proficiency resources in Grades K-8. The web site also highlights the online training courses that teach participants how to administer and rate students' oral language using the SOPA Oral Proficiency Assessment (SOPA). Learn more at the ELA web site.
October 2009

From Spanish to English: Reading and Writing for English Language Learners Kindergarten Through Third Grade now available from CAL
This book and two companion CDs were developed to help ease the challenge of teaching English language learners in Grades K-3 to read and write in English by providing real-life examples, analyses, and instructional strategies. Learn more about these materials.
October 2009

CAL American Dialect Recordings Now
Available Online
As part of the Library of Congress American Memory series, the CAL Collection of American English Dialect Recordings has been digitized and is now accessible online. This collection of interviews and other speech recordings, primarily from dialect research and oral history projects, provides a centralized source of North American dialect samples, preserving valuable linguistic resources that might otherwise be lost. The collection was donated by CAL to the Library of Congress in 1986 and has been accessible only by personal visit to the Library since then. Browse the Collection.
September 2009

FAQs About CAL SIOP Now Available
CAL has posted a list of answers to frequently asked questions about the SIOP Model, its implementation, and CAL SIOP services and resources. Learn more at the CAL SIOP web site.
August 2009

ONPAR - Computer-Based Test of Science and Math for Beginning English Language Learners
CAL is working with the WIDA Consortium to develop ONPAR, an alternative test that allows students to demonstrate their content knowledge with a test instrument sensitive to their lower proficiency in English. The ONPAR project has recently launched its own Web site. Learn more.
August 2009

Second CREATE Brief Available for Download
Response to Intervention and English Learners outlines the tiered structure of RTI and how it can be implemented as an effective technique for teaching English learners who are having difficulty making academic progress. It touches on methods of assessment and instructional considerations, and it guides educators in tailoring this technique to fit the needs of English learners. Learn more.
August 2009

Four New Profiles Added to the Heritage Voices Collection
The Alliance for the Advancement of Heritage Languages is continuing its new online series designed to allow heritage language speakers and programs to share their unique voices with visitors to our Web site. Visit the Alliance Web site to view four new Heritage Voices, including profiles of a French heritage language program in New York, a German program in Connecticut, and a Hindi one in New Jersey. The fourth profile spotlights the language of Hindi.
August 2009

A Navajo Success Story: Heritage Language Revitalization in Magdalena, New Mexico
In Magdalena, NM, students have been improving their English and Navajo language skills. Through an innovative bilingual model of heritage language revitalization, Navajo students can receive instruction in English as a second language and in Navajo language and culture.

Learn more about the program and read the report: English Language Acquisition and Navajo Achievement in Magdalena, New Mexico: Promising Outcomes in Heritage Language Education
August 2009

New CAELA Network Brief Available
Teaching Pronunciation to Adult English Language Learners
This brief reviews features of English that can have an impact on the teaching and learning of English pronunciation, looks at current research on learner acquisition of pronunciation, and describes how teachers can implement the teaching of pronunciation in their classes. Learn more.
July 2009

Assessment Training Online (ATOL)
CAL now offers a free online training course that teaches participants about oral proficiency assessment for students learning foreign languages at the secondary, post-secondary, and professional levels. It also serves as an introduction to CAL's SOPI and COPI assessments. Learn more.
July 2009

First CREATE Brief Available for Download
Using the SIOP Model to Improve Middle School Science Instruction provides an overview of the SIOP model and highlights how teachers can develop content and language objectives, emphasize key vocabulary, promote interaction, and incorporate effective review and assessment techniques within the context of middle school science. Learn more.
June 2009

New Paper Outlines Strategies for Building U.S. Foreign Language Capacity
This paper describes the need for skilled speakers of languages other than English in the U.S. and outlines the necessary components for an effective long-term national strategy to meet that need. Read the paper. (PDF, 590 KB)
June 2009

Two New Profiles Added to the Heritage Voices Collection
The Alliance for the Advancement of Heritage Languages is continuing its new online series designed to allow heritage language speakers and programs to share their unique voices with visitors to our Web site. Visit the Alliance Web site to view two new Heritage Voices profiles: one spotlighting a Chinese language program in Texas and another spotlighting the language of Tamil.
May 2009

Connect to Online Information about the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA)
For your convenience, CAL has created a Web page with links to a wide variety of information about the ARRA of 2009. Learn more.
May 2009

TIRF Study Addresses Plurilingualism in Global Business
TIRF (The International Research Foundation for English Language Education) has published a study of the role of English and plurilingualism in business and industry entitled The Impact of English and Plurilingualism in Global Corporations. The findings show that language proficiency directly facilitates knowledge transfer and business performance. As a result, employers, especially in multinational corporations, highly value multilingual communication skills.

For a copy of the executive summary or to download a PDF of the full study, visit the TIRF Web site.
April 2009

CAL's 50th Anniversary recognized in Congressional Record
Read the remarks of Representative Rubén Hinojosa of Texas.
April 2009

Researchers Urge Use of Stimulus Funds to Address the Needs of English Language Learners
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) provides an extraordinary opportunity to improve educational outcomes for English language learners (ELLs), a rapidly growing, yet underserved population. The Working Group on ELL Policy, a group of researchers with extensive experience in the education of ELL students, has prepared a set of recommendations designed to guide discussion and decision-making on how to use ARRA funds to better serve English language learners in schools across the United States. Read the full report.
March 2009

Quality Counts 2009: Portrait of a Population
How English-Language Learners Are Putting Schools to the Test
CAL worked with Education Week to create a downloadable PDF of selected articles from the recent Quality Counts 2009. This PDF features three articles from the report that reference CAL's work on the education of English language learners. Learn more.
March 2009

TIRF now accepting proposals for 2009 Doctoral Dissertation Grants (DDG)
The International Research Foundation for English Language Education (TIRF) welcomes Doctoral Dissertation Grant (DDG) proposals for 2009. For successful DDG proposals, US $5,000 is the maximum award.

This year Doctoral Dissertation Grant (DDG) proposal applications will be considered on any of the following research priorities topics:

the age issue,
the proficiency of English language teachers,
technology in language learning and teaching,
effective grammar instruction,
bilingualism and plurilingualism in business and industry, and
language assessment.

For full details on what these topics encompass and for information about submitting applications, please visit TIRF's web site: www.tirfonline.org. The deadline for submitting a proposal is May 1, 2009.
February 2009

Heritage Voices Collection
Read our new online series designed to allow heritage language speakers and programs to share their unique voices with visitors to our Web site. Visit the Alliance Web site to view the initial offerings of the collection.
January 2009

2008-09 Online Survey for Middle and High School Newcomer Programs Available
Do you have a program for middle or high school newcomers? If you know of a program or have one and are willing to complete the survey so we can record information in our revised newcomer database, please fill out our online survey.
January 2009

2009 G. Richard Tucker Fellowship
Applications are now being accepted for the 2009 G. Richard Tucker Fellowship. Each year a new Tucker Fellow is selected for a 4-week residency at CAL's offices in Washington, DC. The application deadline is April 13, 2009. Learn more.
December 2008

Understanding Assessment: A Guide for Foreign Language Educators
CAL has developed an online tutorial designed to act as a companion piece to the FLAD, helping educators choose the most appropriate test for their needs. A Moderated User Review capability for the FLAD is also now available. Learn more.
November 2008

Introducing COPI - the next generation of the SOPI
Now available in Arabic and Spanish, the Computerized Oral Proficiency Instrument (COPI) is a computer-based, semi-adaptive test of Arabic and Spanish oral proficiency. Learn more.
November 2008

Heritage Languages in America - Frequently Asked Questions
A seventh question, What is language loss?, has been added to the list of Frequently Asked Questions on the Heritage Languages in America Web site. In addition, the answers to the first six questions have been bundled together as a downloadable PDF for ease of reference. Learn more.
June 2008

Registration Now Open for the 2008 CREATE Conference
Math, Science, and Social Studies: A Focus on English Language Learners in Middle School to be held October 6 – 7, 2008 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Learn more at the CREATE Web site.
June 2008

BEST Literacy Test Manual (2008 Edition) Now Available
The 2008 edition of the BEST Literacy Test Manual is now available. The new manual contains updated National Reporting System (NRS) and Student Performance Level (SPL) scale score ranges, additional background and technical information, and refinements to procedures for scoring the note writing section. Learn more.
June 2008

CAL Project List Updated
CAL has recently refreshed its projects list, updating progress on existing projects and adding new projects for 2008 and beyond. Learn more.
May 2008

Registration now open for CAL- CARLA Conference
Immersion Education: Pathways to Bilingualism and Beyond, a CARLA-CAL Conference Collaboration will be held October 16 – 18, 2008 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel – St. Paul Riverfront in St. Paul, Minnesota. Learn more or register online.
May 2008

Acquiring Literacy in English Web Site Now Online
CAL has recently expanded the resources available from its research project, Acquiring Literacy in English (ALE), a 5-year program of research in which the Center for Applied Linguistics and its collaborators studied the factors that predict success as Spanish-speaking children learn to read and write in English. Visit this newly expanded site.
April 2008

CAL to Offer Summer Training of Trainers Institute on What's Different About Teaching Reading to Students Learning English?
In response to growing requests from educators for training materials on teaching reading to English language learners, CAL is offering a three-day Training of Trainers (TOT) Institute in Washington, D.C., in late July 2008. Learn more.
April 2008

Two Adult ESL Resources Now Available In Print
The CAELA Guide for Adult ESL Trainers and Practitioner Toolkit: Working with Adult English Language Learners, two online resources created by CAELA, are now available for purchase as print publications for ease of use and reference. Learn more.
Both resources are still available for download free of charge on the CAELA Web site.
April 2008

CAL to Conduct New Research on Newcomer Programs
CAL is currently updating our contact list in preparation for conducting a newcomer research survey in spring/summer 2008. The results of this survey will be used to update CAL's Newcomer Database (2000). Learn more.
March 2008

CAL Collaborating with Great Lakes East Comprehensive Assistance Center
CAL is collaborating in the operation of this Center to provide capacity-building assistance to Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio in their efforts to raise student achievement. Learn more about CAL's involvement and view a page of ELL-focused resources from CAL.
March 2008

EL/Civics Online: Integrating EL/Civics Into Adult ESL Classes
Learn more about this free series of online courses designed to assist teachers in creating interesting and effective ESL lessons in the areas of U.S. history, U.S. government, civic engagement, and the naturalization process.

EL/Civics Online is developed by the Adult Learning Resource Center under a contract from CAL with funding from the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Vocational and Adult Education, and from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Office of Citizenship.
March 2008

CAELA Network Launches New Web Site
There is a vital need for high quality instruction for adult English language learners in the United States. Visit the new CAELA Network Web site, a portal to information focusing on effective professional development for educators working with adult English language learners. Learn more by visiting the CAELA Network Web site.
February 2008

Guidance on BEST Literacy Score Interpretation
CAL will make changes to the BEST Literacy score interpretation chart effective July 1, 2008. An informative flyer outlining these changes and providing helpful guidance was mailed to all users in January 2008. Read more.
February 2008

African American English Bibliography Now Available
CAL has amassed a bibliography of more than 650 print references related to African American English. Learn more.
February 2008

TIRF Call for Proposals for the 2008 Doctoral Dissertation Research Grants
TIRF (The International Research Foundation for English Language Education) announces the 2008 competition for doctoral dissertation grants. Grants of up to US $5,000 will be awarded for the highest rated proposals.

Doctoral students who have been advanced to candidacy may submit proposals for funding to support empirical investigations related to the following research priority topics:

Students' age and effective English language education in schools
Teacher English proficiency and effective English language education
Optimal uses of technology in the delivery of English language instruction
Effective grammar instruction for English language learners in primary and secondary education contexts

The deadline for submitting proposals was April 30, 2008.
Please visit www.tirfonline.org for further information.
February 2008

Free Webcast seminar on January 10, 2008 hosted by CREATE - Building Oral Language into the Basal
In Thursday’s free Webcast seminar, Building Oral Language into the Basal, Dr. Diane August, Senior Research Scientist with the Center for Applied Linguistics, will describe methods to develop the language proficiency skills of English Learners in the context of language arts, math, and science instruction in elementary and middle schools. Register now to participate in this presentation, co-sponsored by CREATE and West Ed's SchoolsMovingUp.
January 2008

New CAL Digest -
Effects of Instructional Hours and Intensity of Instruction on NRS Level Gain in Listening and Speaking
This digest reports on a study examining the relationship between the number of ESL instructional hours and intensity of ESL instruction with the progress of adult English language learners in listening and speaking in English, as measured by the oral proficiency assessment BEST Plus. Download a free copy of this new publication.
December 2007

2008 G. Richard Tucker Fellowship
Applications are now being accepted for the 2008 G. Richard Tucker Fellowship. Each year a new Tucker Fellow is selected for a 4-week residency at CAL's offices in Washington, DC. The application deadline is April 14, 2008. Learn more.
December 2007

New CAL publication –
Guiding Principles for Dual Language Education
The Guiding Principles were developed as a tool to help dual language programs (two-way immersion, heritage language, foreign language immersion, or developmental bilingual programs) with planning and ongoing implementation. The Guiding Principles are now available for purchase in a print format for ease of reference. Learn more.
December 2007

Foreign Language Assessment Directory now available
CAL has developed a free, searchable online directory of information on nearly 200 tests in over 90 languages. Learn more.
November 2007

New Discover Languages Spotlight on Russian
In support of the Discover Languages campaign, CAL presents Spotlight on Language, a regular Web series that focuses on specific languages and CAL's related work. The third Spotlight on Language, Russian, is available now.
October 2007

COR Center releases fourth Refugee Backgrounder
Click here to download our Refugee Backgrounder profiling the Bhutanese Refugees in Nepal.
October 2007

New CAL Digest-
Oral Proficiency Assessment: The Use of Technology in Test Development and Rater Training
Since 1986, CAL has investigated and initiated a number of approaches to oral proficiency assessment that rely on semi-direct measures and new technologies. This digest describes ways to use technology to improve test development and administration and to improve the training of raters. Download a free copy of this new publication.
October 2007

New CAL co-publication -
Developing Reading and Writing in Second-Language Learners
This book was created as a summary of the full volume, Developing Literacy in Second-Language Learners, reporting the findings of the National Literacy Panel on language-minority children and youth. Learn more.
September 2007

Foreign Language Directory enhancements in development
CAL is developing two online resources to help with selection of foreign language assessments: the Foreign Language Assessment Directory (FLAD) and an online testing tutorial called Understanding Assessment: A Guide for Foreign Language Educators. Learn more.
September 2007

CO Trainers' Exchange 2007 Executive Summary and individual reports now available
In May 2007, six domestic resettlement professionals visited a number of the overseas sites offering CO to U.S.-bound refugees. Visit the COR Center Web site to read the Executive Summary of the visits or see the secondees' individual reports and slideshows.
September 2007

National K – 12 Foreign Language Survey underway
CAL conducts a national survey of foreign language instruction in elementary and secondary schools every decade to gain greater understanding of current patterns and shifts over time. We are currently conducting the third survey to be able to show trends in foreign language education at three points in time (1987, 1997, 2007). Learn more.
September 2007

Heritage Languages in America unveils new Web site
The Alliance for the Advancement of Heritage Languages recently launched its redesigned Web site. The newly revamped site offers expanded content and improved navigation to make it easier to find resources and information about heritage languages in the United States. Visit the site.
July 2007

What's Different About Teaching Reading to Students Learning English? 2007 Edition
Learn more about our revised materials for What's Different About Teaching Reading to Students Learning English?
June 2007

COR Center releases third refugee backgrounder
Click here to download our refugee backgrounder profiling the Kunama.
June 2007

CREATE Web site expanded
CAL partners with several institutions in the Center for Research on the Educational Achievement and Teaching of English Language Learners (CREATE), a National Research and Development Center for English language learners. Visit the newly expanded CREATE Web site to learn more about CREATE, its research and upcoming events.
June 2007

Project SAILL Web site launched
CAL is working on two research strands of Project SAILL, a larger biliteracy effort involving several partner universities. Visit the recently launched Project SAILL mini-Web site to learn more about CAL's research efforts as part of this initiative.
May 2007

COR Center releases new refugee backgrounder
Click here to download our second refugee backgrounder profiling the 1972 Burundians.
April 2007

New CAL publication -
An Insider’s Guide to SIOP Coaching
This new resource is designed for coaches who know the SIOP Model and are helping teachers implement it in their lessons. The guide offers practical suggestions for establishing productive coaching contexts, helping teachers with effective SIOP lesson planning, conducting observations and providing feedback, and sustaining SIOP implementation over time. Learn more.
March 2007

COR Center introduces refugee backgrounders
In the tradition of the culture profiles, refugee backgrounders provide key information about new refugee groups for U.S. resettlement workers but in a smaller digest format. Click here to download our first backgrounder profiling the Banyamulenge Tutsi.
February 2007

New CAL publication -
Realizing the Vision: Fostering Effective Programs and Classrooms
Drawing on a decade of research, this book explores the question of effectiveness in two-way immersion by examining the development of bilingualism and biliteracy in elementary TWI students. Specifically, the authors highlight the importance of fostering cultures of intellectualism, equity, and leadership in order to promote bilingualism and biliteracy among students in TWI programs. Learn more.
January 2007

Refugee Families & Refugee Youth Videos Now Available
These two videos, combined on one VHS videotape or DVD, were created to assist refugees and refugee service providers in learning about adjustment of refugee families and refugee youth to their new lives in the United States. Topics include family adjustment, discipline, school life, home life, and learning English. Learn more.
December 2006

New Culture Profile: Meskhetian Turks
The Meskhetian Turks: An Introduction to their History, Culture and Resettlement Experiences provides general information about Meskhetian Turk communities around the world including information about their culture, language and education, and resettlement in the United States, as well as recommended reading. Learn more.
December 2006

CAL invites applications for the 2007 G. Richard Tucker Fellowship
The G. Richard Tucker Fellowship program for master’s and doctoral students in language-related fields is now in its 16th year. Each year, a new Tucker Fellow is selected for a 4-week residency at CAL’s offices in Washington, DC. The Fellow works with CAL senior staff on an existing CAL research project or on a suitable project suggested by the Fellow. Learn more.
December 2006

CAELA featured in Nexus online journal
The Center for Adult English Language Acquisition (CAELA)'s rich array of adult ESL professional development and print resources have been spotlighted in Nexus, an annual, peer-reviewed, online journal for teacher educators, developers, and trainers working in the field of teaching English to speakers of other languages. Click here to read the profile of CAELA that was published in the November 2006 issue of Nexus.
December 2006

SOPA Online Training Now Available
CAL has developed an online training course that teaches participants how to rate students' oral language using the Student Oral Proficiency Assessment (SOPA). SOPA Online Training is now available with the self-paced Introduction to SOPA. Learn more.
November 2006

Discover Languages
Discover Languages is a national campaign introduced by ACTFL to build on the momentum of 2005: The Year of Languages and to raise awareness of the importance of language learning and cultural understanding. In support of the Discover Languages campaign, CAL presents Spotlight on Language, a regular Web series that focuses on specific languages and CAL's related work.
The first Spotlight on Language, Arabic, is available now.
November 2006

Multimedia Rater Training Program (MRTP) French version coming soon.
The MRTP is a computer-assisted professional development tool that teaches professionals to rate oral proficiency through authentic language samples from the Simulated Oral Proficiency Interview (SOPI). CAL is expanding the available languages for the MRTP this winter. Learn more.
November 2006

National K-12 Foreign Language Survey Underway
CAL has received funding from the U.S. Department of Education, Title VI International Research and Studies program, to conduct a national K-12 foreign language survey. This project will expand our knowledge, suggest needs for increased or improved foreign language instruction, and provide data to inform language education policy at the local, state, and national levels. Learn more.
November 2006

Adolescent ELL Literacy Report Released
Double the Work: Challenges and Solutions to Acquiring Language and Academic Literacy for Adolescent English Language Learners, was published by the Alliance for Excellent Education and released earlier this month. Learn more.
November 2006

BEST Literacy now available.
BEST Literacy, CAL's updated version of the literacy skills section of the Basic English Skills Test (BEST), evaluates reading and writing skills in authentic situations chosen for their relevance to adult language learners in the United States. Learn more.
October 2006

TWI Toolkit
The Two-Way Immersion (TWI) Toolkit is now available as an online resource for teachers, parents, and administrators involved with TWI programs, particularly those at the elementary school level. It brings the principles of TWI to life through a Q&A on classroom instruction and through model lesson plans that showcase how effective instructional strategies play out in the two-way context. Browse the Toolkit.
October 2006

New CAL Digest
The purpose of CAL's newest digest, Raising Bilingual Children: Common Parental Concerns and Current Research, is to help pediatricians, speech language pathologists, classroom teachers, and other professionals who work with bilingual children and their parents understand common parental concerns related to bilingual childrearing and become familiar with the current science on bilingual child development. Download a free copy.
September 2006

National Literacy Panel Executive Summary Now Available
The report from the National Literacy Panel on Language Minority Children and Youth has been completed and will be published in Summer 2006. Read the executive summary of this important report.
August 2006

CAL receives 2-Way CABE award for promoting bilingualism
CAL was honored to receive 2-Way CABE’s Promoting Bilingualism Award at the National Two-Way Bilingual Immersion Program Summer Conference in July 2006.
An affiliate of the California Association for Bilingual Education (CABE), 2-Way CABE also acknowledged the contributions of CAL’s president, Dr. Donna Christian, in support of two-way immersion. We very much appreciate this award and the recognition of our colleagues. We look forward to working together in support of two-way immersion and bilingual education programs and policies in the years to come.
July 2006

Guiding Principles Document Available for Public Comment
The Center for Applied Linguistics is pleased to announce that the document, Guiding Principles for Dual Language Education, is available in draft form for public comment. Read more.
August 2006

New Partnership Announced
CAL is a partner in the new Appalachian Regional Education Laboratory serving Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia. Read more.
June 2006

New Cultural Orientation Digest
Cultural Orientation for Refugees provides a review of the recent history of refugee cultural orientation and a primer on overseas and domestic orientation efforts. Download a free copy.
March 2006

Parenting for Academic Success: A Curriculum for Families Learning English
This research-based curriculum was designed to build the English language skills of parents learning English who have children in kindergarten through third grade. CAL developed this curriculum in collaboration with the National Center for Family Literacy and also wrote a paper outlining the research base underlying the curriculum. To read the paper, click here. For more information about the curriculum, visit www.delta-systems.com.
March 2006

English for Heritage Language Speakers Web Site Launched
The Center for Applied Linguistics is working with the National Security Education Program to improve the English proficiency of U.S. heritage populations who have expertise in critical languages. To learn more, visit the EHLS Web site.
September 2005