The California English Language Development Standards (CA ELD Standards) amplify the California State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects (ELA/Literacy). English learners need to have a purpose for using language (social function), know how to use the language meaningfully, and know how to access resources to be knowledgeable of language in order to be precise in language use to convey exact meaning.

The CA ELA/Literacy and CA ELD Standards both integrate reading, writing, speaking, listening, and language as expressed in key themes of Meaning Making, Language Development, Effective Expression, Content Knowledge, and Foundational Skills.

The CA ELD Standards support English learners to use English purposefully. They support English learners to use language to interact meaningfully in school and beyond. They also support English learners to be knowledgeable about English and utilize language as a resource for communicating and learning.