According to the WIDA Scale of English Language Proficiency (Levels 1-6), Engish Learners qualify for support in both receptive language (reading and listening domains) and expressive language (speaking and writing domains). This post provides a quick overview of what students can do at each level. For more detailed information, please visit WIDA’s CAN DO Descriptor page.
Level 1 – Entering Stage
Students at this stage are not ready to actively produce language. They are listening and beginning to respond and show that they understand by using nonverbal signals. Students in this stage demonstrate the following:
- Respond in a nonverbal manner
- Memorize written or spoken words and phrases
- Rely heavily on pictures to understand assessments and text
- Demonstrate limited comprehension, especially of written language
Level 2 – Emerging Stage
Students can participate in hands-on demonstrations and illustrated stories with more understanding. They can give one-word responses and initiate a conversation by pointing and using a single word. As receptive vocabulary expands, the student can respond non-verbally to a wide range of vocabulary items. Students in this stage demonstrate the following:
- Improved understanding of basic interpersonal communication skills (BICS)
- Comprehension of approximately 20% of the academic content they hear
- Inability to comprehend most textbooks
- Limited writing ability (2-5 word sentences)
- Large gaps in vocabulary, grammar, and reading comprehension
Level 3 – Developing Stage
Students at this stage begin speaking phrases and simple sentences. They will make errors in grammar, word order, and word usage as they begin to communicate more freely. It is important to remember that errors are a necessary part of the learning process as students make progress toward fluency. Students in this stage demonstrate the following:
- Understanding of most of the non-academic vocabulary used in the classroom
- Ability to read and write at the level of their language proficiency.
- Ability to comprehend some assessments and texts
- Ability to understand cause and effect
- Difficulty with inferences, word order, word usage, and grammar
Level 4 – Expanding Stage
Students can communicate their thoughts more completely. They can participate in everyday conversations without relying on concrete contextual support. Some can use language in situations in which little previous context has been established. Students in this stage demonstrate the following:
- Ability to express ideas on a wide range of topics
- Ability to comprehend at the level of their language proficiency
- Ability to write to convey meaning and understanding
- Small gaps in vocabulary and/or grammar
Level 5 – Bridging Stage
Students exhibit a high level of English language proficiency that will allow them to exit the ESL program. They demonstrate proficiency in English in the domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing on an academic grade level.
Level 6 – Reaching Stage
Students at this stage are at an English language proficiency equal to that of their peers.