2026 NYSAFLT Annual Conference

How do students acquire language, and how do they learn to read? Language acquisition and Literacy development are distinct but complementary processes. This session explores what research reveals about natural language acquisition and learning to read. Teachers will gain a clearer picture of how literacy development and language acquisition connect, along with strategies to support learners’ oral language, reading skills, and overall proficiency in world language, dual language, heritage, or English development classrooms.