Ace the Educating All Students (EAS) Challenge 2025 – Rally Your Teaching Superpowers!

Relating a student's native language to English can significantly enhance their confidence in using English. When students see connections between their native language and English, they are more likely to recognize their existing linguistic skills, which fosters a positive self-image as language learners. This acknowledgment can reduce anxiety associated with language learning environments, allowing students to practice their English speaking skills more freely.

Furthermore, when teachers validate a student’s native language, it can create a supportive atmosphere that encourages participation and risk-taking in speaking activities. This increased comfort level can lead to improved verbal communication abilities in English and a greater willingness to engage in conversations, thus boosting their overall confidence in using the language.

In contrast, while improved test scores, reduced peer comparison, and an increased focus on English literacy might also be important outcomes, they are typically indirect results of the enhanced confidence in speaking, which is fundamentally linked to how students perceive their ability to communicate effectively in English.