Big Benefits of Multiple Language Learning for Children
Jodie Shell • September 29, 2020

Research has shown that there are many benefits to being able to speak more than one language. Learning multiple languages challenges the brain and improves cognitive and social-emotional development, learning, and the chances for long-term success.

The US Department of Education put together an informative document on the benefits of being bilingual and biliterate. In it they explain that bilingual people and children:

  • Have an easier time: learning other languages, thinking about language, developing strong thinking skills, and growing in other areas of cognitive development.
  • Benefit academically: they are able to switch between languages, helping them develop a more flexible approach to problem solving. It was also noted that, “The ability to read and think in two (or more) different languages promotes higher levels of abstract thought, which is important in learning.”
  • Diversify society by using their second language to build friendships.
  • Have more job opportunities than monolingual adults.

These aren’t the only benefits. With a strong foundation in their native language, children can apply what they know of learning to read to the second (or third, and so on) language, enhancing their literacy abilities and allowing them to “increase the rate at which they read comfortably…” in the new language. In school, children who speak more than one language usually get better grades and quickly build confidence as they become more competent in the second language. And because young children are able to mimic sounds, words, and phrases so well (be careful what you say in front of a 3-year-old because, chances are, you will hear it again!), they often are able to sound like a native speaker of the language! This is something that adults learning a second language might never be able to accomplish.

Stephen Krashen, a respected linguist and promoter of bilingual education and second-language acquisition, believes there are two important ingredients for teaching a second language to school-aged children. He explains during an interview for Language Magazine, “We need to provide students with a great deal of comprehensible input, the essential ingredient in language acquisition. Several decades of research has confirmed that we acquire language when we understand what we read or what we hear. This means filling the classroom hour with aural comprehensible input and making sure students establish a pleasure reading habit in the second language. It is crucial that the input be not only interesting, but compelling; so interesting that students forget it is in a second language. The second ingredient is making sure students know how language is acquired, so that they can continue to improve in the language after the course is over, and acquire other languages.”

GrapeSEED was developed, in part, based on Krashen’s beliefs. English learning lessons are taught so that children can gain an understanding of each new vocabulary word before they are expected to use it. Images are used often to help children associate words with the pictures. Teachers are encouraged to ask open-ended questions to engage the children and help them make connections between the words or activity and their own lives, expanding their comprehension of the language. With the comprehensible input used in the GrapeSEED classroom, children are not only acquiring the language, but they are quickly reaching proficiency, and in some cases, reaching it faster than the national average!

Celebrating Teachers: Why Teacher Appreciation is Special and Unique in 2025

April 28, 2025
In 2025, teacher appreciation has taken on an exciting new dimension. As we navigate through a rapidly evolving digital age, the role of teachers has become more crucial and multifaceted than ever before. Here’s why celebrating our educators this year is both special and unique: Digital Pioneers : Teachers today are not just educators but also pioneers of digital learning. They've seamlessly integrated technology into their classrooms, using tools like virtual reality and AI to create immersive learning experiences that captivate and engage students. Adaptability at its Best : The past few years have shown us the incredible adaptability of teachers. Whether transitioning from in-person to online classes or adopting hybrid teaching models, teachers have proven their ability to pivot and innovate, ensuring that learning continues uninterrupted. Champions of Personalized Learning : With the help of data-driven insights and educational technology, teachers are crafting personalized learning experiences. This approach caters to the unique needs of each student, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive at their own pace. Emotional Intelligence Leaders : Teachers today understand the importance of emotional intelligence in education. They are equipped to support the emotional and mental well-being of their students, creating a safe and nurturing space for learning. Creative Engagement : From gamified learning to interactive projects, teachers are continuously inventing new ways to make education fun and engaging. Their creativity inspires students to be curious and passionate about their subjects. As we look to the future, the role of teachers will continue to evolve, but one thing remains constant: their unwavering dedication to shaping young minds. In 2025, we celebrate not just their adaptability but also their commitment to fostering a brighter future for all. Teacher appreciation today is a testament to their invaluable contributions to society and the endless possibilities they unlock for future generations. At GrapeSEED, we are inspired by and appreciative of teachers who inspire, innovate, and ignite a love for learning! Are YOU ready to become a GrapeSEED teacher? Click here!

Navigating the Multi-Language-Learner Landscape: The Nuances of Being an Instructional Coach

By Jodie Shell • April 11, 2025
The role of an instructional coach in the multilingual language learner world is challenging and rewarding, requiring a unique set of skills and a deep commitment to fostering language acquisition among diverse learners. Often serving as the bridge between teachers and students, instructional coaches in this realm play a pivotal role in shaping how language education is delivered and experienced. Here's a closer look at the nuances of this impactful role: Supporting Diverse Learners One of the most rewarding aspects of being an ESL instructional coach is the opportunity to support a wide range of learners from various cultural and linguistic backgrounds. This diversity enriches the learning environment but also presents unique challenges. Coaches must be adept at understanding the specific needs and strengths of each student, tailoring strategies to enhance engagement and comprehension. Adapting Teaching Strategies Cultural context plays a critical role in how language is taught and learned. ESL instructional coaches must continuously adapt teaching strategies to align with the cultural nuances of their students. This involves integrating culturally relevant materials, respecting different learning styles, and being sensitive to the cultural references that may affect language comprehension and usage. Fostering Collaboration Collaboration is at the heart of an ESL instructional coach's work. Coaches collaborate with teachers to develop effective lesson plans, provide feedback on teaching practices, and introduce innovative instructional methods. By fostering a collaborative environment, coaches help create a supportive network that enhances professional growth and improves student outcomes. Continuous Professional Development  To stay effective, ESL instructional coaches must engage in continuous professional development. This includes attending workshops, participating in webinars, and staying abreast of the latest research in language acquisition and teaching methodologies. Professional development is crucial for coaches to refine their skills and introduce new teaching techniques that can benefit both teachers and students. Leveraging Technology The integration of technology in ESL instruction is a game-changer, and instructional coaches are at the forefront of this transformation. By leveraging tools such as language learning apps, virtual classrooms, and digital assessments, coaches can enhance the learning experience and provide more personalized support. Technology also allows for greater accessibility, enabling students to practice language skills outside the traditional classroom setting. Making a Lasting Impact Ultimately, the role of an ESL instructional coach is about making a lasting impact on the lives of students and educators. Coaches help unlock the potential of students by equipping them with the language skills needed to succeed in a globalized world. They also empower teachers with the tools and confidence to deliver effective ESL instruction. In conclusion, being an instructional coach in the ESL world is a dynamic and fulfilling career that requires a blend of empathy, adaptability, and expertise. By embracing these nuances, instructional coaches can contribute significantly to the field of language education, paving the way for a more inclusive and effective learning environment. Are you an instructional coach who is interested in learning about the impact that GrapeSEED could make on your teachers and students? Come partner with us! Just click here to get started.

What Is Language Acquisition? Stages and Theories

By Jodie Shell • April 7, 2025
Doing more research on Language Acquisition? The stages of Language Acquisition and theories / best practices? GrapeSEED provides insights and tips on the topic.

Unlock Potential with Data Driven Instruction

March 27, 2025
In the dynamic environment of multilingual learner classrooms, data-driven instruction paired with formative assessments plays a pivotal role in creating effective and engaging learning experiences. Let's explore how these strategies can benefit both teachers and students. The Power of Formative Assessments Formative assessments are essential tools that offer real-time insights into student progress, enabling educators to refine their teaching methods. Here's why they're indispensable: Immediate Feedback : By providing instant insights, formative assessments help teachers adjust their instructional strategies to better meet student needs. Customized Learning : These assessments allow lessons to be tailored to individual student needs, moving away from generic approaches to more personalized instruction. Increased Engagement : When lessons are precisely aligned with a student's current understanding, engagement and participation naturally increase. Effective Formative Assessment Techniques Incorporating a variety of assessment techniques keeps the classroom lively and informative: Quizzes : These quick assessments help identify which language concepts students have mastered and which need more attention. Peer Reviews : Students work together to provide feedback, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment. Self-Assessments : Encouraging students to evaluate their own progress promotes self-awareness and active participation in their learning journey. Benefits of Data-Driven Instruction Utilizing data from formative assessments allows for a more strategic approach to teaching: Targeted Instruction : Teachers can develop activities that address specific areas of difficulty, such as pronunciation exercises or vocabulary games. Supportive Learning Environment : Continuous feedback nurtures a growth mindset, encouraging students to view learning as an ongoing process. Enhanced Language Acquisition : Focusing on individual language skills helps students build a robust foundation for more rapid and confident language learning. In summary, integrating data-driven instruction with formative assessments transforms the ESL classroom into an engaging and effective learning space. By using these strategies, educators can better support student growth and development, ultimately leading to more successful language acquisition. If you would love to learn about the GrapeSEED Curriculum and our formative assessments, known as ‘Quick Checks’, just head to our website by clicking here .
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