Empowering Newcomer MLs: Access to Content Area Classes for Better Language Learning

If you’ve ever taught newcomer MLs, you’ve seen the same heartbreaking loop in their content area classes:

They sit.

They listen.

They watch.

And, oh so often, they try. That is, until they realize they are getting nowhere. Newcomers don’t have the language to enter the lesson.

When students can’t enter learning, they can’t grow in it. They fall behind — not because they can’t learn, but because school is happening around them, not with them.

The truth is this: Level 1 students are capable of much more than one-word answers and pointing. They just need the right language at the right moment — and they need it in a way they can actually use.

That’s the purpose of this new resource.

A One-Page Tool That Gives Newcomer MLs Access to the Classroom

This month, we created a simple two-page spread designed for absolute beginners — the students who walk in with little or no English, but with full intelligence, full potential, and full desire to participate. We aren't talking about the silver bullet of instruction. We're talking about giving students a foothold.

The page we are giving you to use at your leisure provides students the exact phrases, icons, and important words they need to navigate school:

• Asking for help

• Understanding directions

• Everyday needs

• Checking understanding

• Classroom conversations

• Time & schedule language

• Important classroom and content words

  
  

These are not random vocabulary lists, but rather functional language tools that empower students to:

• Ask questions

• Join conversations

• Follow directions

• Communicate needs

• Access content

• Advocate for themselves

  
  

This is what makes school visible for our newcomer MLs. Click below to download.

Ace the Next Level IV.pdf

Download PDF • 169KB

The Second Page Shows Growth — Even Inside Level 1

On the second page, students demonstrate progress through a series of simple, visual, low-text tasks.

They:

• Choose a phrase from each category.

• Use it in a real situation.

• Check a box when they complete tasks.

• Log individual “moments.”

• Move up a five-step progress ladder aligned to Level 1.

  
  

There is no heavy writing.

No long reflections.

No directions needed.

It’s intuitive, visual, and built for real classrooms.

And this is the shift we need:

👉 Newcomers don’t just watch learning happen — they join it.

👉 They don’t sit silently — they communicate early and often.

👉 They don’t disappear into content classes — they participate.

This is how we close the gap before it widens.

⭐ Introducing ACE: The Next Level

This two-page spread is part of a larger, student-facing system called ACE: The Next Level, a notebook we’re releasing with the new year.

ACE: The Next Level will include:

• Simple language and skills to move from Level 1 all the way to reclassification.

• QR codes linking to online books, scaffolded texts, vocabulary games, learning supports, and brain-break activities.

• Student-facing challenges that build productive study habits.

• Spaces for demonstrating language progress in content classes.

• Clear, easy steps aligned to proficiency level descriptors.

  
  

It’s modern.

It’s practical.

And it’s built for the multilingual learners we actually have — not the one we used to have.

Want the “Ace Level 1” Student Check Sheet?

We’re giving away the student-facing Level 1 check sheet page 2 to blog subscribers only. This is the version students will use to demonstrate their progress through Level 1.

If you’d like it, simply sign up for the blog, and it will be sent directly to you.

This resource is for you, your newcomers, and the multilingual learners who deserve access to learning from day one.

The Importance of Early Language Access

Early access to language is crucial for newcomer MLs. It sets the foundation for their academic journey. When students can communicate, they can engage more fully in lessons. This engagement leads to better understanding and retention of content.

Building Confidence Through Language

Confidence is key for language learners. When newcomer MLs can express themselves, they feel more empowered. This empowerment fosters a positive learning environment. It encourages risk-taking in language use, which is essential for growth.

Creating a Supportive Classroom Environment

A supportive classroom environment is vital for newcomer MLs. Teachers can create this environment by using inclusive practices. These practices may include:

• Pairing students with peers who can model language use.

• Incorporating visuals and gestures to aid understanding.

• Providing opportunities for collaborative learning.

  
  

The Role of Teachers in Language Acquisition

Teachers play a significant role in the language acquisition process. They can facilitate learning by:

• Using clear and simple language.

• Encouraging student participation.

• Providing constructive feedback.

  
  

Conclusion: A Path Forward for Newcomer MLs

In conclusion, empowering newcomer MLs with the right tools and resources is essential. By providing access to functional language and creating a supportive environment, we can help these students thrive. Let’s work together to ensure that every newcomer ML has the opportunity to succeed in their educational journey.