Introduction

This job aid was born out of that exact feeling. Translanguaging isn’t just about translating texts it’s about honoring all the languages students bring into the classroom. It’s about creating space for them to think critically, express themselves fully, and see their whole identity reflected in what they’re learning.

And here’s the good news: with tools we already use like MagicSchool, ChatGPT, Khan Academy, or Newsela it’s totally possible to build text sets and lessons that meet students where they are and push them forward. No need to start from scratch or spend hours reinventing the wheel.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to:

• Tap into free, familiar tools to create bilingual-friendly resources

• Adapt what you already have to build better access for emergent bilinguals

• Design student tasks that go beyond basic translation and into real, meaningful language use

Let’s make instructional materials that reflect who our students are and what they’re capable of when we embrace the full richness of their voices. You ready? Let’s do this.

Step-by-step Guide: Designing a Translanguaging Text Set