Skip to content Our programs for ELL students teach key English vocabulary to learners of all ages. Unlike online ESL games, our professional-grade ELL software and ELL teaching resources include hundreds of research-based activities to ensure a solid foundation in the English language. All ELL programs, including First Words for ELL, Everyday English for ELL, School Stories for ELL, Super Phonics, Sight Words, and Reading Comprehension, offer optional auditory support in 10 different languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Arabic, Farsi, and Portuguese.
With over 70 comprehensive online learning titles to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect solution to fit your needs. Search titles by grade level, and or subject area using the drop-down menus below.
Need help? Call 1-800-753-3727 to speak with one of our friendly and knowledgeable program consultants.
Value Bundles
Transform your school’s learning outcomes with Essential Skills Complete—a powerhouse of over 70 expertly designed programs covering K-6 reading, math, science, geography, and English language learning. Trusted by over 53,000 teachers, this all-in-one package is your key to delivering engaging,…Read More
Designed for: Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6
6 comprehensive ELL programs teach and reinforce basic English vocabulary to start English learners on the path to reading at a 1st grade level. Our suite of ELL resources for elementary students and older English learners allow students to work…Read More
Designed for: Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 6 Plus
Basic Skills Series
This complete interactive reading skills program provides systematic and explicit phonics instruction to students at a K-2 grade level. Students progress from learning the alphabet to reading complete sentences. Super Phonics includes optional auditory support in Spanish to better support…Read More
Designed for: Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2
This comprehensive sight words program teaches the 220 Dolch sight words and more than 100 other high-frequency words to students at a kindergarten through 2nd grade level. The word lists in the Essential Skills Sight Words program constitute over 50%…Read More
Designed for: Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2
First Words for ELL builds a strong foundation in English vocabulary by teaching the meaning, spoken forms, and written forms of essential words, while connecting these forms for deeper understanding. Developed by teachers and reading specialists, the program features optional…Read More
Designed for: Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 6 Plus
Everyday English for ELLs builds a strong foundation in practical English vocabulary by teaching the meaning, spelling, and usage of essential words for day-to-day life. Developed by teachers and reading specialists, the program features seven engaging units and over 140…Read More
Designed for: Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 6 Plus
School Stories for ELLs builds a strong foundation in school-related English vocabulary by teaching the meaning, spelling, and usage of essential words through eleven engaging stories. Developed by teachers and reading specialists, the program features optional auditory support in 12…Read More
Designed for: Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 6 Plus
Comprehensive ESL Program Offerings
Unlike traditional ESL resources, Essential Skills’ ESL program suite provides educators with a powerful set of online tools to effectively engage students in English learning. Our comprehensive ESL resources start students at the most basic level to provide a solid foundation for newcomers and early English learners. Whether you’re looking for activities to support classroom learning or materials for homework, our ESL resources for teachers are designed to meet diverse needs.
What is an ESL program?
An ESL program (English as a Second Language) is an educational program designed to help non-native English speakers learn and improve their English language skills. These programs focus on developing proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in English.
What types of ESL resources are available for teachers?
There are various types of ESL resources for teachers, including:
Lesson plans: Structured guides that provide step-by-step instructions for teaching specific language skills.
Worksheets and activities: Printable and digital materials for grammar, vocabulary, and conversation practice.
Flashcards: Visual aids to help students learn new words and concepts.
Reading comprehension exercises: Texts with questions designed to improve students’ understanding of written English.
Online tools and apps: Platforms that offer interactive language exercises, assessments, and practice opportunities.
What role do technology-based ESL teacher resources play in language instruction?
Technology-based ESL teacher resources play an important role in modern language instruction by:
Offering interactive lessons and quizzes: Online platforms allow students to engage in language exercises in a fun and interactive way.
Providing instant feedback: Many apps offer real-time feedback on grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary use.
Supporting virtual language practice: Video conferencing tools enable students to practice speaking with teachers or peers in real-time.
Allowing personalized learning paths: Adaptive learning platforms adjust lessons based on students’ progress, helping them learn at their own pace.
Why are ESL resources important for language learners?
ESL resources are crucial for helping non-native speakers acquire English proficiency. They provide targeted support that addresses the unique challenges ESL students face, such as learning vocabulary, mastering grammar, and improving pronunciation. These resources help students build confidence in using English in both academic and social settings.
How can teachers use scaffolding as an ESL teaching strategy?
Scaffolding is an effective ESL teaching strategy that involves breaking lessons into smaller, more manageable tasks. Teachers can scaffold instruction by:
Providing sentence starters: Giving students phrases to begin their sentences.
Using graphic organizers: Helping students organize their thoughts and ideas visually.
Modeling the task: Demonstrating how to complete an activity before asking students to try it on their own.
Offering guided practice: Working with students in small groups or individually until they feel confident to complete tasks independently.