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LIFT for Newcomers

Introducing LIFT for Newcomers

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Most literacy programs assume students already speak English. LIFT for Newcomers doesn't. Built as an extension of LIFT (Literacy Intervention for Teens), this 41-lesson addition to the existing intervention gives newcomers, English language learners, SLIFE students, and adult learners the foundational skills they need — through culturally relevant, high-interest texts designed for older readers, not younger ones, featuring characters who have experienced learning a new language. The full program includes 75 decoding lessons, 60 fluency lessons, vocabulary routines, letter-sound cards, affix cards, additional guidance for implementing literacy interventions with newcomer MLL students, an educator manual, and progress monitoring tools.

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Distinguishes ELL Subpopulations
Treats newcomers, SLIFE, and long-term ELLs as distinct groups with distinct needs — not a single "ELL" category.
Culturally relevant texts
Decodable and high-low books centered on the newcomer experience and language-learning — stories that reflect students' real lives.
Evidence-based ELL Instruction
Builds foundational skills systematically without assuming prior English literacy or schooling experience.

Language Development Isn't a Separate Lesson — It's Woven Into Every One

LIFT for Newcomers builds language acquisition directly into every lesson, not as an add-on but as a core part of the instructional design:

  • A structured pathway moves students from explicit phonics instruction toward fluency, pairing decoding with dedicated vocabulary and oral language development at each phase
  • Vocabulary is previewed with visuals and student-friendly definitions before reading, then revisited afterward to reinforce retention
  • Oral language is built through structured strategies like sentence frames and partner conversations, giving students low-pressure ways to practice speaking
  • Lesson pacing flexes across multiple sessions so students get the time they need for language growth without losing the integrity of the core reading instruction

A Scope and Sequence made for Newcomers

LIFT for Newcomers begins with foundational decoding lessons using The Hidden Gems series. Additional materials include:

  • Newcomer-specific decoding student workbook
  • Vocabulary and letter-sound cards designed for older readers, with vocabulary routines created by HILL for Literacy
  • Affix cards
  • An educator manual with specific vocabulary and language acqusition guidance
  • Progress monitoring tools to track growth across the program

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Not Just Different — Built Different: Why LIFT for Newcomers Stands Out

  • Made for older learners, not repurposed for them — designed specifically for grades 6–12, with culturally relevant texts and student materials
  • Newcomers, SLIFE, and long-term ELLs aren't treated the same — because they don't have the same needs
  • Language acquisition isn't an add-on — it's built into every lesson, pairing phonics with vocabulary and oral language practice at every phase
  • A clear, flexible pathway with real implementation support — moving students from explicit decoding to fluency, backed by an educator manual, progress monitoring tools, and pacing that adapts without losing structure

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