Featured blogs: Focus on CASAS STEPS

  • A female teacher stood around a table with adult students sat around in, they are sat in a library.

    The CASAS Test is now the CASAS STEPS. Why?

    By ɫèAV Languages
    Reading time: 2 minutes

    As you might have heard, the CASAS Test has been updated and is now the CASAS STEPS (Student Test of English Progress and Success). Some of the changes include fewer yet more rigorous test questions and streamlined reading and listening levels. Although changes can be challenging, our team at ɫèAV is here to help you navigate them and help your students succeed.

    The changing landscape of adult ESL classrooms

    No one knows more about the drastic changes happening in Adult ESL classrooms than teachers. With emerging trends like blended learning and AI technologies and changes in the legislative and workforce landscapes, classrooms are not the same in 2024 as they were 10 years ago when the CASAS Life and Work 980 Listening Series was released. Let’s look at four reasons why we are getting an updated CASAS assessment.

    Why the CASAS test changed

    1. Changes in the workforce

    First, the CASAS test changed because the workforce has changed. Jobs today require higher thinking and more digital skills than ever before. To succeed in this competitive market, our students need to be exposed to more complex and rigorous materials and evaluated accordingly.

    2. Introduction of IET Programs

    The introduction of IET programs (Integrated Education & Training) has shifted adult education methodology to allow for simultaneous career and language preparation, in which students take ESL/ABE courses at the same time as professional certification courses. Curriculum needs to include academic language skills and specific career-related content such as medical, culinary, or construction vocabulary, preparing students to pass state certification assessments. We need our students to complete ESOL and GED classes more quickly and efficiently than ever, alongside certification programs through technical and career colleges.

    3. Technological advancements

    Additionally, there has been a complete shift in the way we use technology and automation in the classroom. Smart boards, online games, online classes, language apps, and YouTube are just a few examples of the world students have at their disposal in their pockets. Many everyday tasks must be completed digitally, like setting up doctor’s appointments, filing taxes, purchasing groceries, and assessing digital literacy is vital.

    4. New NRS descriptors

    Aside from changes in the classroom and workforce, the OCTAE (Office of Career Technical and Adult Education has transitioned to a new set of NRS (National Reporting System) descriptors, and the CASAS assessment needed to be updated to match that transition. We will cover those changes in more detail in the coming weeks.

    Supporting the transition

    Our instructional team has been working hard to ease the transition for you. All our FUTURE Series materials are already aligned with the new CASAS STEPS. If your program is not yet using the series, or if you would like the tutorials and tips as a current user, Discover more about CASAS STEPS preparation here. If you're keen on incorporating FUTURE in your institution, get in touch with us. Stay tuned for .

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  • Students sat at a desk looking at a textbook together, with a teacher pointing to it
    • The Global Scale of English
    • Business and employability

    Real-world English: How GSE Job Profiles bridge learning and work

    By Sara Davila
    Reading time: 5 minutes

    Did you know that improving your English proficiency can increase earning potential by up to 50% and safeguard your career against AI? Recent research by ɫèAV highlights that English is not just a skill but a career-defining advantage in today’s globalized workplace. For millions of adult learners, the journey from the classroom to the workplace requires more than general conversational abilities—it’s about gaining targeted, job-ready skills as quickly as possible. For English language educators, understanding what “jDz-𲹻” English is and how to identify “jDz-𲹻” skills can provide a significant advantage in ensuring learners are prepared to communicate effectively and collaborate with their future coworkers.

    That’s where the Global Scale of English (GSE) Job Profiles comes in. For educators and program developers, it offers a bridge between real-world job skills and the English learners need to perform them. Whether you’re creating programs for nursing assistants, hospitality workers, or IT professionals, this tool ensures that learners build the precise English skills they need to thrive in their roles.

    Let’s walk through how to create a GSE Job Profile and explore its practical use for building programs that align with today’s professional realities.

  • A older techer sat with students, in particular looking at a laptop with one of the students
    • Technology and the future
    • Language teaching

    Teacher technology adoption: What’s age got to do with it?

    By Jennifer Williams
    Reading time: 4 minutes

    Educators, by design, are innovators. Living and working in a constant state of beta, teachers bring to the classroom a natural desire to explore and better understand new practices and methodologies to support students in their search for knowledge.

    Guided by an internal drive to make the world a better place and powered by the rewards of working daily with the youth that can create that positive change, teachers collectively are part of a profession different from any other. Within one classroom on any single day, a teacher can become a scientist, a historian, an inventor, or a scholar. Over time, whether in a one-room schoolhouse a century ago or in a technology enhanced classroom of the digital age, these defining characteristics of “teacher” have seemed to stay constant.

    Bridging the generational and digital divide

    Today, as citizens of our digital and global world, we are in an extraordinary time where divides are closing and collaboration becomes standard – where differences are truly celebrated and associations are surpassing separations in society.As educators, this change reflects what we have consistently asserted in our classrooms.

    Yet, terms like 'generational gap” and “digital divide” suggest a significant separation between us as teachers and our students. In truth, teachers and students are increasingly using asharedlanguage of innovation and exploration. Rather than sticking to notions of a technology-based generational divide, many are transcending the labels of “digital immigrants” and “digital natives”.

    This is further reinforced by current research demonstrating that technology adoption in education has less to do with age and instead is based more on exposure and experience (Bennett & Maton, 2010; Bullen, Morgan, & Qayyum, 2011; Guo, Dobson, & Petrina, 2008; Helsper & Eynon, 2010). As opposed to a focus on divides, this new evidence offers supportive pathways of possibilities to bring together older and younger generations in the process of learning in our world through exploration and wonder.

    Embracing skill development

    Moving attention away from a fixed age factor to emphasizing a continuum of proficiency based on exposure and experience enables teachers of all ages to identify as part of this digital age of education. Though digital technologies are fixtures in the daily lives of many (if not most) of our students, the ways students use technologies are not always consistent.

    Students of today – like students of previous generations – continue to need the guidance of teachers in finding ways to take and apply their understanding of technology to effectively convey perspectives with the world, influence the opinions of others, and contextualize and synthesize information in meaningful ways.

    Timeless lessons from teachers

    Teachers as innovators – young and old, tech-savvy and tech-novice – have extraordinary gifts to bring to their students, who are also navigating through digital environments. Though there are countless lessons teachers bring to students, here are several timeless ones that transcend any generation of teaching. Teachers guide students to use advanced technologies so that they can be...

    Critical consumers

    Today, students in our classrooms are bombarded with information at nearly every moment in time. With basic searches for information often leading students in multiple directions, research at every level has now become a highly complex and sophisticated process. The result is that we now see learning practices shifting from finding answers to discovering more questions.

    Teachers can guide students to evaluate and consume information critically. By promoting transparency and sharing, they help learners consider context and sources, reason with evidence and build knowledge.

    Creators of rich content

    As classrooms advance as blended learning environments, seamless integration of technologies and innovative teaching practices offers students opportunities to transform from passive learners to active content creators. With countless digital tools available for content creation, students can seek guidance from teachers on matching the best tool to a particular communicative purpose.

    Teachers who are skillful in creating synthesized messages can show students ways to comprehend and compose with combinations of digital technologies. Less in the role of directing lessons, the teacher becomes a catalyst for learning, inspiring students to work creatively and collaboratively to solve problems and respond to instructional lessons as producers of information.

    Centered on relationships

    A defining quality of a master teacher is the ability to create a positive learning community built on empathy and understanding. The focus on relationships in these classrooms models the continued importance of valuing alliances and friendships.

    Soft skills, such as joy, honesty, trust and respect, become even more essential as our students continue to interact in a highly networked and diverse world. Balance, too, becomes a critical area for discussion as students look to divide attention, time and social-emotional reserves between onscreen and in-person experiences.

    Within responsive classrooms and digital learning spaces that keep emphasis on the formation of relationships, teachers can offer opportunities for students to develop through collaboration, teamwork, solidarity and conflict resolution.

    Resilient in endeavors

    Our students are looking out onto a world where anything is possible. Digital age technologies are empowering students to believe: “if you can dream it, you can do it”. The impossible is within reach, and a mindset of grit and determination moves sparked ideas to a place of accomplishment and excellence.

    Through the creation of learner-driven classrooms centered on the student, teachers can help guide students to narrow their interests and ultimately find their passions. With relevance and authentic purpose, teachers can connect students in the process of learning through design thinking and trial and error – shifting the outlook from fear of failure to resilience and 'stick-to-itiveness' to advance learning to a place of discovery and invention.

    And it is this mindset – a position of inquiry and exploration – held by students and teachers, young and old, that can show that great will come from risk. We all just need to be ready to try.

  • A man reading a book sat in a window
    • Linguistics and culture
    • Language hints and tips

    Ways to help you work out the meaning of new words

    By Charlotte Guest
    Reading time: 4 minutes

    Learning a new language is an exciting journey, but it can also be challenging, especially when you encounter unfamiliar words. Don't let new vocabulary intimidate you. With the right strategies, you can work out the meaning of new words and enhance your language skills. Here are some effective ways to help you work out the meaning of new words so you can use these new words confidently and tackle any unfamiliar words with confidence.

    Before diving into practical tips, it's helpful to understand a bit about the origins of the English language. English is a Germanic language, but it has been heavily influenced by Latin, especially through the Norman Conquest in 1066 and the Renaissance period. Many English words have Latin roots, prefixes and suffixes. This historical context can be a valuable tool in decoding unfamiliar vocabulary.

  • A business woman on her phone smiling, sat in a office with a laptop on her lap
    • Business and employability
    • Technology and the future

    Digital Language Tutor: Enhancing language learning through AI-powered conversation partners

    By Mateusz Jekiel
    Reading time: 3.5 minutes

    With an ever-growing range of learning tools and applications being launched, choosing the right solution can feel overwhelming. However, the Digital Language Tutor for Mondly by ɫèAV distinguishes itself as an innovative solution aimed at helping corporate clients enhance their listening and speaking abilities in relevant business contexts.

    The Digital Language Tutor is targeted at professionals who speak at least a B1 level of English (43-50 on the Global Scale of English). It employs AI-powered Conversation Partners to simulate corporate scenarios, providing users with an immersive and interactive learning experience.

    In this post we outline the strategic design process behind these Conversation Partners, highlighting the importance of diverse representation, compelling and authentic personality trait development, and integrating level-appropriate language skills alongside essential corporate soft skills to create a comprehensive language learning solution.

  • A group of students stood in a classroom high fiving eachother
    • Language teaching

    How to help students achieve their New Year’s resolutions

    By Nicola Pope
    Reading time: 2 minutes

    2025 is here. As we step into the new year, it's the perfect time to reflect on our recent challenges andachievements. It’s also a good moment to think about the future with optimism andplan our goals. Our students, too, are thinking about their New Year's resolutions.

    As a teacher, you can help them consider how learning English will help them now and in the future. On top of this, you can guide them as they plan their goals and give them useful advice on how to achieve them.

  • Students sitting outside a building chatting and smiling together
    • Language hints and tips

    Understanding resolutions: Setting your language goals for success

    By Charlotte Guest
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    Millions of people make resolutions every New Year (or any significant milestone). Many learners set inspiring goals to acquire new skills, explore new academic fields, or develop better study habits. But how often do these resolutions stick? And how can you turn your learning-related goals into lasting habits? This post dives into the science of resolutions and practical strategies to make your learning commitments stick.

    Why do learning resolutions fail?

    that the majority of New Year’s resolutions fail by February. When it comes to learning, the reasons often include overly ambitious goals, lack of clear plans and failure to sustain motivation over time.

    One main reason resolutions fail is that they are not specific enough. Goals like "get fit" or "learn a language" are too vague and don’t include steps to take. Without a clear plan, it’s easy to feel lost and lose motivation.

    For example, it’s one thing to decide, “I’m going to learn French this year,” but without a structured plan, consistent practice and measurable benchmarks, the resolve often fizzles out.

    Another factor is having unrealistic expectations. While it's good to be ambitious, setting too high goals can cause frustration and burnout. For example, trying to master a skill in just a few weeks ignores the time and effort needed to improve.

    Distractions and other priorities can slow down progress. Life demands, like work or family, can easily push resolutions aside if they aren't included in everyday routines.

    How long does it take to form a habit?

    One key to sticking to a learning resolution is habit formation. Popular belief often quotes the “21-day rule,” but research says differently. A 2009 study published in the found that it takes an average of 66 days to form a new habit.

    However, this number varies based on personal factors, the difficulty of the habit and the surroundings. For instance, if your goal is to study for 20 minutes each day, it may feel more comfortable after a few weeks of practice. In contrast, picking up a harder learning habit, like spending two hours a day studying Mandarin grammar, could take much longer to become a regular part of your routine.

    Strategies for making resolutions stick

    1. Start small and specific

    Instead of setting a big goal like “become fluent in Spanish," set smaller, easy-to-reach goals. For example, try "learn 10 new Spanish words each day" or “listen to one Spanish podcast each week.” This makes your goal seem less overwhelming and helps you feel accomplished over time.

    that mixing big-picture goals with small, specific ones can be a useful way to stay on track when working toward long-term objectives.

    2. Use the power of routine

    Connect your new learning habit with one you already do. This is called “habit stacking.” For example, if you have coffee every morning, decide to study for 15 minutes as you finish your drink. Linking the new habit to a routine you already have makes it more likely to stick.

    3. Track your progress

    Keeping track of your learning helps motivate you and shows where you can improve. Whether you check off lessons in a language learning app like Mondly by ɫèAV or write notes in a journal, seeing what you’ve accomplished keeps you interested.

    4. Build accountability

    Tell your friends, family, or study groups about your learning goals. When someone else knows your goal, it can help you stay on track. It’s even better to join a community of others who want to learn, like on social media or in online classes.

    People who do well often set clear, achievable goals and share them with friends for support.

    5. Reward yourself

    Small rewards can go a long way toward maintaining motivation. Celebrate milestones with meaningful perks, such as a favorite treat, an afternoon off, or buying yourself a book on the subject you're learning.

    6. Anticipate and plan for setbacks

    Life happens—sometimes work is stressful or things go wrong. Remember that missing a day or getting behind doesn’t mean you've failed. Keep going by recognizing challenges and getting back to your study plan with fresh motivation.

    7. Don’t fear failure

    Mistakes are part of progress. Every mispronounced word or awkward conversation is a step closer to fluency.

    8. Reassess and adjust goals

    If your language learning plan isn’t working, change it. If weekly goals seem too much, try monthly goals instead. The key is flexibility.

    The reward of resolutions

    Keeping resolutions can be tough, but the benefits are great. Picture yourself reading a book in your target language, traveling more easily, or making stronger friendships with people from different cultures. With determination and these tips, you can achieve your language learning goals.

    Start today -Whether it's January or June, it's never too late to set new goals. Draft a language learning plan, break it into small steps, and watch as each day brings you closer to your destination.

  • Students sat outside on grass studying and smiling
    • Inclusivity and wellbeing

    Building healthy New Year habits with your students

    By Amy Malloy
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    Balancing mindfulness and planning ahead

    Here we find ourselves already in a new year. I wonder if, like me, many of you might be wondering how that has happened. January is a time of year traditionally associated with analyzing the past and making resolutions for the future.

    In the classroom this might also involve looking forward to assessments and exams at the end of the school year. Maybe you’ve made New Year’s resolutions that have already fallen by the wayside.

    The focus of this blog is learning how to stay in the present moment. So let's take a practical look at how to manage this time of year with your students and with ourselves as teachers (and humans), while also effectively planning ahead for the future.

  • Two coworkers stood together smilng and looking at a tablet together
    • Business and employability

    Corporate wrapped 2024 : A year in review

    By Charlotte Guest
    Reading time: 3 minutes

    At ɫèAV Languages, 2024 has been a landmark year full of innovation, connection, and impactful resources for businesses worldwide. We’ve worked on so many things with the aim to empower global workforces and help organizations unlock the potential of language skills to drive business success. Here's how we made a difference this year.

  • Teacher and primary school students colouring
    • Language teaching

    Planning effective ESL lessons for the upcoming year: Tips and ideas for teachers

    By Sam Colley
    Reading time: 4 minutes

    As the new year approaches, it's the perfect time to reflect on our teaching practices and plan engaging, effective lessons for our English as a Second Language (ESL) students. Thoughtfully crafted lesson plans can make a significant difference in the learning outcomes and engagement levels of your students. Whether you're teaching young children, teenagers, or adults, the principles of effective lesson planning remain consistent. Here are some ideas, hints and tips to help you create dynamic and successful ESL lessons for students of all ages.

    Start with clear learning objectives

    Begin each lesson with clear, achievable objectives. What do you want your students to learn by the end of the lesson? Objectives provide a roadmap for both you and your students, ensuring that everyone is focused and aware of the goals. For example, an objective might be "Students will be able to use past tense verbs to describe their weekend activities." Clear objectives provide direction and help you measure student progress.

    Incorporate a variety of activities

    To cater to different learning styles and keep students engaged, incorporate a mix of teaching methods and activities. Here are a few ideas:

    • Listening: Use audio recordings, songs, or podcasts to improve listening skills.
    • Speaking: Organize pair or group discussions, role-plays, or presentations to enhance speaking abilities.
    • Reading: Provide a variety of texts such as articles, short stories, or dialogues.
    • Writing: Assign tasks like journal entries, essays, or creative writing exercises.
    • Homework activities: For something outside of the classroom, a nature walk or a recipe can be used to help learn specific vocabulary.

    Use authentic materials

    Authentic materials—such as newspapers, menus, brochures and videos—expose students to real-world language and contexts. These materials can make lessons more interesting and relevant, helping students see the practical application of their language skills. Even better, they’re everywhere, so easy to find. Here are some more suggestions for how to select and use authentic materials in your English language teaching.

    Integrate technology

    Teachers are already used to leveraging technology to enhance lessons utilizing online resources, language learning apps and interactive platforms to create a dynamic learning environment. Why not take this a step further by using AI to create your own resources. Take a look at our blog on How to make the most of AI in the classroom for some more ideas.