How do you support EAL learners in a theme-based curriculum?

Theme-based learning is a strong approach for EAL pupils because it provides a shared context and repeated vocabulary across the week.

Practical strategies

• Pre-teach key vocabulary (with images, real objects, actions, and first-language links where possible).
• Use dual coding everywhere: visuals + words + gestures + models.
• Build talk before writing: structured partner talk, rehearsed sentences, role play, oral retells.
• Sentence stems and frames: “I think… because…”, “The reason is…”, “First… then… finally…”.
• Model the language of the subject: not just keywords, but teach the phrases of explanation, comparison, cause/effect.
• Keep texts accessible: same content, but chunked, with glossaries and supported reading.
• Celebrate home language and culture: links to pupils’ experiences make comprehension faster and engagement higher.