Unlocking Learning: Science as a Lever for English Learner Equity

  Based on in-depth site visits and featuring real-world examples of high-performing schools, high-quality professional development, and innovative classroom practices, Unlocking Learning: Science as a Lever for English Learner Equity, lays out a blueprint for increasing access and achievement in science for California’s 1.37 million English learners. Key takeaways of the report include:

• Research shows that weaving together science and language development can increase students’ academic performance in reading, writing, and science simultaneously.
• Some promising practices are resulting in achievement levels that are double and even triple the state average for English learners who met or exceeded proficiency.
• LCFF and the implementation of the CA Next Generation Science Standards provide districts an opportunity to overhaul their approach to science education and language development.

The report concludes with district-level and state-level recommendations, along with a series of questions for community stakeholders to ask in their advocacy for closing English learner achievement gaps in science.