Path to Proficiency
English Language Learners
Meeting individual needs with Thinking Maps
Improve educational equity for English Language Learners (ELLs) and others with language-based learning differences. Path to Proficiency builds teacher capacity to address the needs of ELLs with practical strategies for language development and comprehension.
Case Studies & Testimonials
Meeting Student Needs
About Path to Proficiency
Path to Proficiency builds on the foundation of Thinking Maps to show teachers how to differentiate the use of the Maps for English Language Learners and others with language-based learning differences. These strategies are not meant to be used only by TESOL teachers or solely in pull-out ESL classes. Rather, they are used by all teachers to improve equity and academic outcomes for ELLs in their general education classes. Path to Proficiency shows teachers how to support the needs of ELLs within the context of the general classroom in ways that are inclusive and respectful of the needs of all students.
Through our specialized training, teachers will learn how to:
- Explicitly teach language through content
- Build Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP)
- Help students with limited English proficiency access grade-level content and concepts
- Adapt and extend the use of Thinking Maps for all English Language Development Levels
Building Language Proficiency
Closing Achievement Gaps
The strategies in Path to Proficiency are designed to not just close achievement gaps but accelerate language development. They provide a framework that ELLs can use to interact with and understand grade level content while simultaneously learning the form and function of language. Teachers will learn how to:
Recognize and support the comprehension and language development needs of ELLs
Adapt and extend the use of Thinking Maps for students of all language proficiency levels
Use Thinking Maps for language and vocabulary development
Differentiate instruction for a variety of student learning needs
Planning Your Path
Like Thinking Maps, Path to Proficiency is a whole-school program that starts with training your teaching staff. Schools must complete the foundational Thinking Maps training and be active Thinking Maps users before progressing to Path to Proficiency.
Training Options Find Your Rep
Virtual Learning
Thinking Maps Learning Community
The Thinking Maps Learning Community (TMLC) is a vital part of your Thinking Maps implementation and your online hub for Map creation, professional learning, planning and inspiration. We created TMLC to maximize student learning, improve teacher productivity and support professional learning communities.
A web-based program that allows users to create Maps, lessons and assessments while enhancing writing skills.
Monitor progress towards school and district learning goals and develop your Thinking Maps Plan of Action.
An expansive collection of 23 video-based Professional Development modules for anytime, anywhere learning.
An ever-growing collection showcasing professionally vetted maps across grade levels and subject areas.
Continue Your Journey
Advanced Training Options
Your initial Thinking Maps Training is just the beginning of your journey! We offer advanced courses to build the capacity of your staff and maximize the impact of Thinking Maps.
Build a data-driven strategic plan to meet the needs of your teachers and students.
Write from the Beginning...and Beyond
Improve writing across the curriculum with brain-based strategies for all writing genres.
Meet the needs of English Learners (ELs) and students with language-based learning differences.