There are many AI tools that can help teachers support English-Language Learners (ELLs). ELLs sometimes need extra support to access content, build vocabulary, and gain confidence in their language skills. That’s where AI can make a big difference.
Today’s AI tools can do far more than just translate text. They can personalize instruction, simplify reading passages, and offer real-time speech feedback. They even give students more ways to express themselves, especially when they’re still developing English fluency. Best of all, many of these tools are free, easy to use, and built with teachers in mind.
Below are some AI-powered tools that can help you support ELL students in your K–12 classroom:
Voice-Enabled Reading Practice with Google Read Along
Google Read Along is a reading app that helps younger students improve reading fluency by listening as they read aloud. If they struggle with a word, it offers support with pronunciation and feedback.
In the classroom, you could use the app for centers or independent reading time. In addition, you could pair students with headphones and have them practice fluency. Lastly, you could assign specific stories based on reading level and then monitor their progress over time.
To access Read Along, you can either use the Android app or the web version. For the Android app, download it from the Google Play Store. To use the web version, go to readalong.google.com. For more information, check out this blog post, Come Read with Me: Google’s Read Along App or read the Read Along Handbook for Educators.
Simplify Complex Texts with Rewordify
Rewordify rewords complex vocabulary and sentence structures to make reading easier. It also highlights academic vocabulary and provides definitions. This is great for scaffolding content and helping ELLs access grade-level material.
In the classroom, you can paste passages from science or history texts to create leveled reading versions for ELLs. You could also use rewordify to allow students to read a simplified version before tackling the original. In addition, you could create different learning activities such as a word bank quiz, matching sheet, cloze activities, and more.
To access Rewordify, go to rewordify.com. Also, Rewordify is a feature in Read&Write for Google Chrome.
Conversation Practice and Writing Support with ChatGPT
Chatbots like ChatGPT can act like a conversation partner with its voice mode capabilities. Students can type questions, practice dialogue, get grammar corrections, or brainstorm writing ideas. Students can get language practice and writing help in a low-pressure environment and on their own terms.
In the classroom, you could have students conduct a mock interview with the AI to practice question formation. You could also use it to help students write outlines or summaries. In addition, you could have students ask the chatbot to “correct my grammar” or “explain this word.” It would be great to set it up as a station in your classroom. Don’t forget to make note of ChatGPT’s age requirements.
To access ChatGPT, go to chatgpt.com. In addition to ChatGPT, there are also other chatbots such as Google Gemini, Claude, Microsoft Copilot, and Perplexity AI.
Support Writing and Brainstorming with Canva’s Magic Write
ELL students often struggle with getting started on writing tasks. Canva’s Magic Write can help generate sentence starters, outlines, or vocabulary lists based on a prompt. It’s like giving them a boost without giving away the whole answer.
In the classroom, you could use it as a prewriting activity or for brainstorming during writer’s workshop. You could also use it to generate sentences for paragraph building or summaries for longer texts. Furthermore, you could have students compare AI-written sentences to their own and edit for improvement.
You can access Canva’s Magic Write at canva.com/magic-write/. It’s embedded into Canva Docs.
Generate Teaching Resources for ELLs with Twee
Twee is designed for language teachers. It can instantly generate warm-up questions, vocabulary lists, gap-fill exercises, and short dialogues based on topics you provide. Furthermore, Twee contains lesson plans for English teachers packed with creative ESL activities and practical English lesson ideas.
In the classroom, you could use it to create differentiated bell ringers or exit tickets. You could also generate vocabulary-focused games for review. In addition, you could print out conversation scripts for speaking practice.
To access Twee, go to twee.com.
Whether you’re planning centers, small group work, or independent study, these tools will help your students thrive. When it comes to supporting English language learners, the right tool can open up a world of confidence, curiosity, and success. To learn of additional ways you can support ELL students, be sure to check out other ELL related TCEA TechNotes blog posts.
