Introduction to the WIDA ELD Standards Framework, 2020 Edition

Every day, multilingual learners are showing us what they can do. They can bring a range of assets. They can contribute rich knowledge of languages and cultures, perspectives and ways of thinking. They can Narrate., Inform, Explain and Argue.

WIDA offers a system of proven tools and support to help educators and multilingual learners expand what they can do. At the heart of that system, the WIDA English Language Development, or ELD Standards Framework illuminate a vision where all students can develop language and learn content together.

In 2020, we introduced a refreshed edition of the WIDA ELD Standards Framework to meet the needs of everyone involved in the education of multilingual learners. We incorporated ideas and feedback from thousands of educators and experts from around the world. The 2020 Edition builds on WIDA’s past work and addresses the latest theory and practice.

The 2020 Edition emphasizes four Big Ideas that anchor the standards and are interwoven throughout the document: ‘Equity of opportunity and access’ ‘Integration of content and language,’ ‘Collaboration among stakeholders,’ and ‘Functional approach to language development.’

While these concepts are not new to WIDA, this edition gives us an opportunity to strengthen our commitment to making these Big Ideas a reality.

The WIDA ELD Standards can serve as a foundation for designing curriculum and instruction, an advocacy tool, as well as a collaboration resource. Educators can use standards in a variety of ways as they work with students and families. They address the needs of multilingual learners and proficiency levels 1 through 6 helping them engage and interact meaningfully in the classroom.

Incorporating them into curriculum, instruction, and assessment can help multilingual learners acquire the language they need for success.

Learn more about the WIDA ELD Standards Framework, 2020 Edition by visiting us online.