Theoretical Framework

The WIDA Standards Framework and its Theoretical Foundations

The components of the WIDA ELD standards framework interact and influence each other in the design of curriculum, language instruction, and assessment of English learners. Educators and school leaders may consult the framework to support the specific needs of their districts, schools, and individual students. (Adapted from WIDA, 2012) As explained on page 2, “A functional view of language primarily informs the WIDA standards framework.” (WIDA, 2012, p. 2)

Citation: Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. (2012). The WIDA Standards Framework and its Theoretical Framework (Publication). Wisconsin Center for Education Research which partnered with The Center for Applied Linguistics.

Appendix F: Theoretical Foundations of the WIDA ELD Standards Framework, 2020 Edition

The Theoretical Foundations of the WIDA ELD Standards Framework, found on page 354 of the WIDA English Language Development Standards Framework, 2020 Edition Kindergarten – Grade 12, provides clarification of WIDA’s theoretical framework with a renewed emphasis on a functional theoretical approach to language development. (Adapted from WIDA, 2020).

Citation: Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. (2020). WIDA English Language Development Standards Framework, 2020 Edition Kindergarten – Grade 12. (Publication). Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Appendix I: Big Ideas that Permeate the 2020 Edition of the WIDA ELD Standards Framework

The WIDA Standards Framework is founded on four Big Ideas. These Big Ideas,1) Equity of opportunity and access, 2) Integration of content and languages, 3) Collaboration among stakeholders, and 4) Functional approach to language development are found in Figure F-1, on page 355 of the 2020 edition and are interwoven throughout the document. The four Big Ideas support standards-based instruction that is student-centered and culturally responsive. (Adapted from WIDA, 2020)

Citation: Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. (2020). WIDA English Language Development Standards Framework, 2020 Edition Kindergarten – Grade 12. (Publication). Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

The WIDA Can Do Philosophy

The WIDA Can Do Philosophy articulates the foundational belief that English learners bring a unique set of assets (linguistic, cultural, experiential, social-emotional) that have the potential to enrich the experiences of all learners and educators. As students learn additional languages, educators can draw on these assets for the benefit of both the learners themselves and for everyone in the community. By focusing on what English learners can do, educators send a powerful message that students from diverse linguistic, cultural, and experiential backgrounds contribute to the vibrancy of K–12 schools. (Adapted from WIDA, 2019)

Citation: Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. (2019) The WIDA Can Do Philosophy. (Publication). Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

WIDA Can Do Philosophy Video

Suggestion for use: This video provides an overview of the WIDA Can Do Philosophy and can be used during professional learning to provide educators with an introduction to WIDA’s Can Do Philosophy.

Citation: Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. (2021) WIDA Can Do Philosophy Video. Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

WIDA's Guiding Principles of Language Development

Suggestion for use: WIDA's Guiding Principles of Language Development outline the language acquisition research utilized by WIDA to develop the ELD standards framework. The Guiding Principles of Language Development may be shared with educators, parents, and families and are available in 14 languages, which cite the research base behind each Guiding Principle and are also available in an illustrated format, which may feel more student and community friendly.

Citation: Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System. (2019) Guiding Principles of Language Development. (Publication). Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Wisconsin Center for Education Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.