What Are ELPS?
Understanding the English Language Proficiency Standards
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Audio Introduction
Definition
The English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS) are Texas state standards that outline the language development expectations for emergent bilingual (EB) students. They describe what students should be able to do with the English language at each proficiency level across four language domains: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing.
Who Do ELPS Apply To?
ELPS apply to all students in Texas public schools who have been identified as emergent bilingual, from Kindergarten through Grade 12. These are students whose primary language is something other than English and who require language support services to access grade-level content.
Key Concept: Cross-Curricular Standards
Unlike TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills), which are subject-specific, ELPS must be implemented as an integral part of every subject area. This means that ELPS are the responsibility of every teacher, not just ESL or bilingual specialists. Whether you teach math, science, social studies, or ELAR, you are responsible for supporting English language development.
The Four Language Domains
ELPS are organized around four language domains that represent the ways students use language:
- 1Listening - Understanding spoken English in academic and social contexts
- 2Speaking - Communicating orally in English using academic language
- 3Reading - Comprehending written English in academic texts
- 4Writing - Producing written English for academic purposes
ELPS vs. TEKS: What is the Difference?
| Feature | TEKS | ELPS |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Define content knowledge and skills | Define language development expectations |
| Scope | Subject-specific (Math, Science, etc.) | Cross-curricular (all subjects) |
| Who Uses Them | All teachers for all students | All teachers serving EB students |
| Organization | By subject and grade level | By proficiency level and language domain |
| Assessment | STAAR | TELPAS |
Why Do ELPS Matter?
ELPS provide the framework for ensuring that emergent bilingual students receive the linguistic support they need to access grade-level content. Without ELPS integration, students may understand the content but struggle with the language demands of instruction and assessment.
Check your understanding
These quick questions help you self-check. They are not scored and do not affect your progress.
1. The English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPS) apply to which Texas students?
2. ELPS describe expectations across four language domains. Which set is correct?
Key takeaways
- ·ELPS describe what emergent bilingual students can do with English at each proficiency level.
- ·They apply to all EB students in Texas public schools, K-12, in every program model.
- ·Coverage spans four language domains: Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing.
- ·Adopted by SBOE in September 2024 and published at 19 TAC Chapter 120, Subchapter B; the prior ELPS (19 TAC §74.4) remain in effect in classrooms until 2026-2027.
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