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Bridging Language Gaps to Improve Academic Performance and Behavior

In today’s increasingly globalized world, educators need to teach students from diverse linguistic backgrounds. This is particularly evident in international schools where students often speak multiple languages at varying proficiency levels. At a school in the Middle East where I oversaw English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Special Educational Needs (SEN), we observed a concerning trend: many students consistently struggling with behavior and academic performance also had lower MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) scores. After further analysis, we discovered that many of these students were non-native English speakers, and their struggles stemmed from a lack of proficiency in both their home language and English. However, they would not necessarily be considered as EAL students. These factors contributed to their academic difficulties, leading to classroom behavior issues. This article outlines how we identified the issue, implemented targeted interventions, and tracked progress, leading to improvements for all students.

Leveraging Language Proficiency in Retail to Gain a Competitive Edge

Clothing stores located in malls nationwide have to be mindful of catering to an increasingly diverse clientele. The United States experienced a surge between the 2010 and 2020 Census of 276% more people identifying as multiracial. Regardless of cultural or linguistic backgrounds, the aim in the retail sector is to offer diverse options in terms of products and to deliver an exceptional shopping experience. The latter includes addressing customers in their language of preference, so they receive clear, meaningful, and accurate communication that secures their loyalty.

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Language Proficiency Enhances the Guest Experience in the High Seas

Cruise vacations are all about relaxation and adventure, no matter the season. However, the vibrant, multicultural atmosphere on a cruise ship can occasionally lead to hectic situations, especially when language barriers arise, even among the crew. In these moments, the staff’s ability to communicate clearly and effectively in multiple languages becomes crucial.

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Bilingualism is a Superpower that Enhances Efficiency Amongst Food Retailers

Effective communication is vital for smooth operations in inventory management and logistics within the food manufacturing and retail sectors. “In the U.S., the population is becoming more ethnically diverse, which creates new and expanded markets for global ingredients, palettes, and preferences,” (Damicis and Hallowell). When you factor in the rigors of global imports and exports, our multicultural population, and the growing introduction of diverse food products across the nation, employing bilingual staff can significantly improve these processes, reducing errors and enhancing overall efficiency. “Nearly 5 million people are employed in retail jobs, and almost 3 million of those people work in grocery stores,” (Acosta).

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How ACTFL and LTI Are Leading the Charge in Language Testing

In a rapidly evolving world, staying ahead of the curve in education and assessment is crucial. As trusted partners in language proficiency testing, ACTFL and Language Testing International® (LTI) have continuously innovated to meet the needs of learners, educators, and employers alike. Our commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology, coupled with extensive research, underscores how we are leading the way in language testing.

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Bilingual Employees Can Calm Down a Chaotic Situation During a Hotel Stay

Traveling can be a gratifying experience, but for tourists who are not fluent in the local language, it could come with its fair share of challenges. These challenges can quickly magnify, turning a dream vacation into a stressful and difficult experience. That is why, in the travel sector, clear communication is of prime importance, and bilingual workers are highly sought-after. “Having the ability to connect with an individual that doesn’t speak your language can help make you better at your job and enable you to provide the very best in customer service to everyone you encounter,” (Willi).

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Maximizing the Value of Your Seal of Biliteracy: From Certification to College Credit

We’re in our most powerful era as language teachers. The development of Seal of Biliteracy credentials in the United States has ushered in opportunities that elevate the power our graduates have. We are not only arming them with valuable 21st century skills but also tangible evidence that enhances their professional potential. For us classroom teachers, it can be easy to think our task is confined to building our learners’ language skills. But I believe we are in our most powerful era, and we can maximize this opportunity in a variety of ways.

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The Vital Role of Language Proficiency as a Superpower in the Aviation Industry

No one can doubt that in the aviation industry it is of paramount importance to have clear, accurate, and effective communication. Language proficiency is not just an added skill but a critical asset for aviation professionals. In the high-stakes environment of aviation, every second counts. This is especially true in emergencies, where misunderstandings can quickly escalate the levels of danger.

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A Closer Look at Testing Young Learners

A key concept in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is the learner as an agent of social change. “Language education should therefore create learning contexts that encourage learners to grow in their role as social agents, as autonomous and responsible language users. Learners as social agents can then take responsibility for their learning process, and become powerful lifelong learners” (https://www.coe.int/en/web/common-european-framework-reference-languages/the-user/learners-as-a-social-agent). Consider the burden of responsibility we may inadvertently place upon young learners by assessing their language at an age where it is still in early (and very dynamic) development. Do we want to test language at an age where we would not yet expect them to take responsibility for their learning process independently?

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Beyond Grades: How the Seal of Biliteracy Speaks Gen Z’s Language

You are standing in a room with a bunch of incoming 9th grade students and their parents and are given one minute to explain to them why they should enroll in language classes in high school. Anyone been there? I’ve been teaching Spanish since 2004, and I’ve noticed that my sales pitch has changed over the years. I used to talk about the value of understanding cultures, the ways language learning promotes brain growth, and its potential future utility in a broad sense. A generational shift occurred where suddenly that last point – the utility of language learning – became more and more influential. With that shift came the development of language learning certification programs like the Seal of Biliteracy and formal, standardized testing like the AAPPL. It’s important to understand why this shift is happening and what’s behind it. Ultimately, it taps into the value system of today’s students: Gen Z.

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