What is ELD (English Language Development)
ELD (English Language Development) refers to the systematic, explicit instruction specifically designed to develop the English language skills of English learners, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing in academic and conversational contexts.
ELD stands for English Language Development. It refers to the explicit, systematic instruction designed specifically to develop English language skills — listening, speaking, reading, and writing — for students who are English learners (ELs). ELD instruction focuses on the language itself, not just content, and is a required component of educational programs for English learners under federal and state law.
ELD vs. ESL vs. ELL
These related terms are often confused:
| Term | What It Refers To |
|---|---|
| ELD | The instruction/approach to teaching English language skills |
| ESL (English as a Second Language) | Similar to ELD; refers to both the students and the instructional program |
| ELL (English Language Learner) | The student who is learning English |
| EL (English Learner) | Current preferred federal term for the student |
ELD is the instructional methodology — how you teach language to ELLs. It can include ESL pull-out programs, integrated ELD in general education, sheltered instruction, and bilingual programs.
Two Types of ELD
Designated ELD (D-ELD)
- A specific, protected instructional time dedicated exclusively to English language development
- Students receive ELD instruction with an ELD/ESL-credentialed teacher
- Focuses on the language itself: grammar, academic vocabulary, discourse patterns
- Required under California's English Learner Roadmap and many state policies
Integrated ELD (I-ELD)
- ELD strategies and supports embedded within content-area instruction (math, science, social studies)
- The general education teacher incorporates language development into every lesson
- Examples: sentence frames, academic vocabulary instruction, structured partner talk
English Language Proficiency Levels
ELD instruction is differentiated by student proficiency level. Common frameworks include:
- WIDA (used in 40+ states): Entering → Emerging → Developing → Expanding → Bridging → Reaching
- California ELD Standards: Emerging → Expanding → Bridging
- ELPA21: Level 1 through Level 5
Legal Requirements for ELD
Schools that receive federal funding must provide meaningful language support to EL students. This is required under:
- Title III of ESSA — English Language Acquisition, Language Enhancement, and Academic Achievement Act
- Office for Civil Rights requirements under Lau v. Nichols (1974)
- Equal Educational Opportunities Act (EEOA) of 1974
Schools must also annually assess ELs' progress in English proficiency using a state-approved ELP assessment (e.g., ACCESS for ELLs by WIDA, or ELPAC in California).