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UDL Guidelines - Version 1.0: Examples and Resources

Checkpoint 2.4: Options that promote cross-linguistic understanding

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Example/Resource Description See Also
Applied Language solution logo

Applied Language Solutions

This translation website cross translates passages of text and entire web pages.  It also has a function to email translated text directly from the site.  There are many free translation sites such as appliedlanguage.com (preview them in advance of using with students as most support their services with online ads).

Why UDL? ALS is helpful in promoting cross linguistic understanding by providing translation of web material.  Students may need support in using translation tools as a resource for improving language skills rather than relying upon the site.  Translations may have errors, which can be explored to deepen understanding of both languages.

Age Group: All ages
Content Area: All content
Cost: Free
Technology Involved: Internet connection

Language translation tool
Word2word logo

Word2Word

Use online dictionaries in students' native languages to help build vocabulary and background knowledge. Word2Word is a syndication of multiple language dictionaries (not all are compatible with screen readers).

Why UDL? Bilingual dictionaries can be helpful in promoting cross linguistic understanding by developing vocabulary, an essential building block to developing reading and writing skills.

Age Group: All ages
Content Area: All content
Cost: Free
Technology Involved: Internet connection

Language translation tool
The word "Arts" spelled out with different items

Music and Dance Drive Academic Achievement

Watch this video to see an example of arts integration to promote academic achievement. Opening Minds Through the Arts (OMA) is a student-achievement program that uses music, dance, and visual arts to teach skills used in reading, writing, math, science, and other subjects.

Why UDL? Pay special attention to how the integration of the arts benefits English Language Learners. Linking to content that crosses language barriers, while taking steps to develop vocabulary and build communication skills are effective examples of promoting cross-linguistic understanding!

Age Group: All ages
Content Area: All
Cost: Free
Technology Involved: Internet connection to access video; many of the strategies modeled require no technology.

Video

Checkpoints:

2.5: Options that illustrate key concepts non-linguisitcally

Find What Works logo

Doing What Works: Develop Academic English

On this Doing What Works site, understand the research-based recommendation to develop academic English, watch videos on how actual schools are developing academic English, and find a collection of tools and ideas to help you develop academic English in your classroom. 

Don't miss the great videos!

Why UDL? This site provides excellent examples as to how to support vocabulary and grammar development in the classroom.

Age Group: K-5
Content Area: Literacy
Cost: Free
Technology Involved: Internet connection to explore site; many of the strategies suggested require no technology.

Informational website, videos

Checkpoints:

2.1: Options that define vocabulary and symbols

2.2: Options that clarify syntax and structure

Image of the globe as pieces of a puzzle

Wikipedia

"Wikipedia is a free, web-based, collaborative, multilingual encyclopedia project supported by the non-profit Wikimedia Foundation."

Why UDL? Wikipedia offers its content in 41 different languages to reach a broad audience.  Use the site for a multilingual audience or compare entries in different languages to develop vocabulary and syntax in a foreign language.

Age Group: All
Content Area: All
Cost: Free
Technology Involved: Internet connection

Online encyclopedia

Checkpoints:

8.3: Options that foster collaboration and communication

Globe made up of puzzle pieces

Simple English Wikipedia

Wikipedia's "Simple English" entries scaffold the reader by using straightforward language, by chunking the information, and by providing links for further inquiry.  "Simple English" is listed under the Language options.

Why UDL? "Wikipedia Simple English" entries are designed to be accessible to readers who are acquiring the English language.  Simple English entries are also  beneficial for readers who have limited vocabularies or for readers who are interested in the major features of the entry rather than detailed descriptions.

Age Group: All
Content Area: All
Cost: Free
Technology Involved: Internet connection

Online encyclopedia

Checkpoints:

2.2: Options that clarify syntax and structure

 TumbleBook static logo

TumbleBooks Library

TumbleBooks are digital books that read themselves aloud in three languages: English, French, and Spanish. The words are highlighted as they are read aloud.  Students can choose stories independently and collect their favorites.

Why UDL? TumbleBooks provide options for promoting cross-linguistic understanding by offering their digital books in three different languages!

Age Group: K-2
Content Area: Early Literacy
Cost: Free library
$399 per branch/year; discounts for multiple branches
Technology Involved: Internet connection

Teaching material

Checkpoints:

2.3: Options for decoding text

Last Updated: 03/01/2010