Overview

In the evolving field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), there is a growing need for practical guidance on applying a functional approach to language development for multilingual learners (MLs) in K-12 classrooms. Applying a Functional Approach to Language Development addresses that need by focusing on the content areas of English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. This book offers innovative strategies for engaging students in exploring meaning in texts through classroom discussions about language. With the introduction of the new WIDA English Language Development Standards Framework (2020), the emphasis on a functional approach has become even more critical. The WIDA Standards highlight the importance of creating culturally and linguistically sustaining learning environments where MLs can thrive. The book underscores a commitment to equity for MLs by leveraging their linguistic and cultural assets, integrating content and language in collaborative settings, and making language visible as a tool for communication and a means to enact roles, through a functional approach. Grounded in systemic functional linguistics (SFL), this approach provides a metalanguage for discussing the meanings behind authors' choices and helps teachers identify language patterns to support MLs in understanding how language works. This methodology is applicable in any content classroom and is particularly vital for MLs as they expand their linguistic repertoires to engage effectively with educational content. The book is divided into two sections. Section 1 presents applied chapters that utilize a language-based approach to content instruction to design unit plans for MLs across K-12 grades. Section 2 showcases the implementation of a functional approach in teacher education programs across various states, offering valuable insights for educators. This comprehensive book aims to empower teachers with the tools and knowledge to plan effective instruction for MLs, fostering an inclusive and dynamic learning environment.

Full Product Details

Author:   Luciana C. de Oliveira (Virginia Commonwealth University, USA)
Publisher:   Emerald Publishing Limited
Imprint:   Emerald Publishing Limited
Dimensions:   Width: 15.60cm , Height: 1.50cm , Length: 23.40cm
Weight:   0.390kg
ISBN:  

9781805921837

ISBN 10:   1805921835
Pages:   200
Publication Date:   20 November 2025
Audience:   Professional and scholarly ,  Professional & Vocational
Format:   Hardback
Publisher's Status:   Active
Availability:   In Print  
This item will be ordered in for you from one of our suppliers. Upon receipt, we will promptly dispatch it out to you. For in store availability, please contact us.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1. An Introduction to a Functional Approach to Language Development: Applications in Content Area Classrooms with Multilingual Learners; Luciana C. de Oliveira SECTION 1. A Functional Approach to Language Development in Teaching the Content Areas: Applications and Considerations Chapter 2. Genre-based Pedagogy in English Language Arts Integrated with Artificial Intelligence; Jia Gui and Allessandra Elisabeth dos Santos Chapter 3. Unpacking Functional Language in Mathematics; Karen L. Terrell and Destini N. Braxton Chapter 4. “What words should I use?"" Multilingual Learners Learning to Make Language Choices in Science Explanations in Elementary School; Olig Malin and Ruslana Westerlund Chapter 5. Teaching High School History through Counternarratives; Tara M Willging and Joy Beatty SECTION 2. A Functional Approach to Language Development in Teacher Education Programs Chapter 6. A Translingual Functional Pedagogical Framework for Developing Content Area Literacy: An Elementary Language Arts Example; Zhongfeng Tian, Sabrina F. Sembiante, and Nihal Khote Chapter 7. Meaning-Making in STEM: Informing the Pedagogical Agenda for Multilingual Learners through the SMILE Framework; Lourdes Cardozo-Gaibisso, Shreyas Narsipur, and Oliver Sebastian Coleman Chapter 8. Preparing for Reading: Accelerating Multilingual Students’ Path to Academic Literacy in English; Andrés Ramírez and Yuly Andrea González Chapter 9. Integrating a Functional Approach to Language Development in University Teacher Education Coursework; Mary A. Avalos, Alissa Blair , and Luciana C. de Oliveira

Reviews

Author Information

Dr. Luciana C. de Oliveira is Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Graduate Studies in the School of Education and a professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning at Virginia Commonwealth University, USA.

Tab Content 6

Author Website:  

Countries Available

All regions