What does SDAIE stand for?

SDAIE stands for Specifically Designed Academic Instruction in English. This approach is tailored to meet the needs of English learners in academic settings, ensuring that instruction is accessible while still being challenging. It emphasizes the integration of language development with subject matter content, allowing students to engage with the curriculum in a meaningful way. By focusing on "specifically designed" strategies, teachers are able to modify their instruction to support language learners, utilizing techniques such as modeling, scaffolding, and the use of visual aids, which are essential for comprehension and retention of content.

Having this specialized instruction allows educators to bridge the gap between language acquisition and academic success, fostering an environment where English learners can thrive alongside their peers. It reflects an understanding that learners may require additional support to access the same content as native speakers, but with appropriate strategies, they can still succeed in an English-speaking academic environment.