Curriculum and Instruction

The PLUSS Model

The PLUSS Model was developed as a research-based model for classroom instruction that supports MTSS. The five elements of PLUSS Instruction include: Pre-teach vocabulary and prime background knowledge, Language modeling and opportunities for practice, Use visuals and graphic organizers, Systematic and explicit instruction, and Strategic use of native language and teaching for transfer.

• Link to ESU 3's Regional PLUSS Model Slide Deck

• Link to ESU's PLUSS Model Planning Template

• Link to Research Paper on The PLUSS Model

CALLA: Cognitive Academic Language Learning Approach 

CALLA was developed by Anna Uhl Chamot and J. Michael O'Malley. CALLA has five phases: Preparation, Presentation, Practice, Self-Evaluation, and Expansion.  Here is the link to a presentation resource for CALLA. 

SDAIE: Specifically Designed Academic Instruction in English

SDAIE is most effective for students who have reached intermediate English fluency. The core practices of SDAIE include: contextualizing lessons, modifying text, prior knowledge and scaffolding, positive affective domain, strudy and organizational skills, and use of specific instructional tools. Here is a link to a SDAIE overview. 

SIOP: Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol 

• Link to SIOP Lesson Plan Templates

Newcomer students are described as foreign-born students and their families who have recently arrived to the United States. Newcomers are not necessarily included in English learner programs- the term "newcomer" is not synonymous with language level, as students new to the U.S. may be fluent in English. Newcomer students may need support integrating into U.S. culture, so supporting this need is a special consideration when designing programs. 

• Link to the Newcomer Toolkit

  • Link to 2022 Enhancement

• Link to New York Guidance for Planning a Secondary Newcomer Program

• Link to Newcomer Group Definitions

• Link to EL Family Toolkit in Arabic

• Link to EL Family Toolkit in Chinese

• Link to EL Family Toolkit in English 

• Link to EL Family Toolkit in Spanish

• Link to Afghanistan Toolkit 

• Link to Central America Toolkit

• Link to Ukraine Toolkit

• Link to Sample Individual Instructional Plan

• Link to Elementary Student Profile Example

• Link to Secondary Student Profile Example

• Link to article: Suggestions for Identifying and Supporting English Learners with High Abilities, Gifts, and Talents