Understanding Language: Language, Literacy, and Learning in the Content Areas

Understanding Language is an initiative that was launched in 2012. The goal is to raise awareness among educators of the content and language demands associated with the Common Core State Standards and the changes in programs, policy, and practice that will be necessary to create stronger supports for English language learners (ELLs) at the federal, state, and local levels. The website currently includes several informative white papers and policy briefs. Teaching resources will be coming soon.

The project is led by a distinguished team of ELL experts and chaired by Kenji Hakuta, the Lee L. Jacks Professor of Education at Stanford University, and María Santos, the Deputy Superintendent for Instruction, Leadership and Equity-in-Action at the Oakland Unified School District.