Designed to increase knowledge about how language is learned in the content area classroom and explore the characteristics and benefits of sheltered instruction.
This self-paced online course is designed to equip administrators and teachers with essential strategies to support the language and content learning needs of multilingual learners. Developed by the Center for Applied Linguistics, this course is informed by decades of research on effective language acquisition practices and hands-on experience collaborating with educators to foster multilingual learner success.
The course is organized into three comprehensive modules that build knowledge of language acquisition within the content area classroom, using examples based on the widely acclaimed SIOP Model. Participants will engage in instructional activities that demonstrate core principles of effective multilingual learner instruction.
Each module is guided by clear content and language objectives and begins with a warm-up activity. Modules feature narrated presentations, readings, self-assessment quizzes, and opportunities to reflect and practice new skills. Participants will also gain insight through video demonstrations and wrap-up activities that reinforce learning and encourage practical application.
- Module 1: Introduction to Multilingual Learner Instruction and the SIOP Model
This module introduces the SIOP Model, outlining its eight components that guide effective instruction for multilingual learners. By the end, participants will be able to identify key characteristics of multilingual learner instruction and the eight essential components of the SIOP Model. - Module 2: Learning a Second Language in the Classroom
This module explores how students learn a second language within content classes. Participants will analyze principles of language learning, explore academic language forms and functions, and recognize strategies that facilitate language development in content lessons. - Module 3: Content and Language Objectives
This module focuses on creating and using content and language objectives effectively in instruction. Participants will learn to distinguish between content and language objectives, set criteria for effective objectives, practice crafting objectives for lessons, and observe teachers modeling these practices in authentic classroom settings.
Each module can be done at your own pace and it should take no more than six (6) hours to complete all three modules. At the conclusion of the course session, participants will receive a certificate of completion and digital badge from Credly from the Center for Applied Linguistics.
By registering for this course, you agree to the following terms and conditions:
Terms and Conditions
Course Completion
Upon registration and payment, you will receive log-on credentials for the course via the email you provided.
Registration for each session will close one week before the end of the session. You may register for a session in advance, and the course will open on the first day of the session. The course will close at 11:59 PM ET on last day of the session. You must complete the course in full before this time. Courses cannot be completed in subsequent sessions. There will be a two-day break between each session for course maintenance.
Academic Integrity
- Participants will complete all course activities, assessments, and assignments honestly and professionally.
- Participants must not share, sell, or distribute any course content, materials, or assessments without written permission from the Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL).
Digital Citizenship and Ethical Conduct
- Participants will communicate with respect, professionalism, and inclusivity in all digital interactions and forums.
- Participants will uphold ethical standards in all online engagements and demonstrate responsible digital behavior.
Responsible Use
- Participants must only access this course with their assigned username and password.
- Participants must not share login credentials with anyone under any circumstances.
- Participants understand that engaging in any unauthorized access violates CAL’s terms and may result in removal from the course without refund and/or denial of a certificate of completion.
Please follow the registration links below to begin the registration and payment process for your desired session.
This online course is offered in four sessions annually:
- Fall session: October 1–December 28, 2025
- Winter session: January 1–March 29, 2026
- Spring session: April 1–June 28, 2026
- Summer session: August 17–September 28, 2026
Contact CAL’s Online Learning Team about tiered pricing and procedures for orders of 10 or more course seats.
$180.00
