Acquiring a second, third, or fourth language can be an extremely difficult task. An even more challenging feat is acquiring language while having a learning disability. In several schools throughout the U.S. learning disabilities in ELLs are frequently over-or-under-diagnosed. Finding a research based format to assess academic abilities while considering language proficiency is key to getting the correct diagnosis. After a diagnosis is given, accommodating ELL students with language supports as well as special education supports is a middle ground that can meet both needs.
