EAL / Multilingual Learners
Language should not be a barrier to learning.
For multilingual learners and those learning English as an Additional Language (EAL), Magrid provides a way to access mathematics and develop thinking skills independently, without needing to first master the language of instruction.
Understanding EAL and multilingual learners
EAL (English as an Additional Language) learners are students who are learning in a language that is not their first language.
In many classrooms around the world, multilingual learners:
- are developing proficiency in the language of instruction
- may understand concepts but struggle to express them verbally
- require additional time to process and respond to language-based teaching
These learners are not lacking ability. They are learning content and language at the same time.
Research has shown that when learning is accessible without language barriers, outcomes can be significantly improved. In Magrid studies, learners achieved similar results regardless of their home language, effectively closing the gap between native and non-native speakers (multilingual classroom study, Luxembourg).
Strengths of multilingual learners
Multilingual learners bring a wide range of strengths to the classroom.
These often include:
- strong visual learning skills
- ability to recognise patterns and structures
- adaptability and cognitive flexibility
- experience navigating multiple systems of communication
When learning is accessible beyond language, these strengths can be fully utilised.
Learning challenges
In many classrooms, learning is heavily language-dependent.
This can create challenges such as:
- difficulty accessing instructions or explanations
- reliance on reading ability before understanding concepts
- reduced confidence in participating or responding
- slower progression due to language barriers rather than understanding
As a result, learners may appear behind academically, even when they have strong underlying understanding.
How Magrid supports multilingual learners
Accessible by design
Language-free learning
No reading required to begin
Fully visual tasks
Concepts are understood through interaction
Non-verbal instructions
No reliance on spoken explanation
Consistent structure
Supports understanding without translation
Culturally neutral design
Accessible across different backgrounds
Numbers are displayed within the app, with support for multiple written scripts across 12 major languages. This allows many learners to engage with numbers in their home language, their classroom language, or transition between the two as they develop.
This enables learners to access mathematics and cognitive development immediately, regardless of their language level.
Support through targeted skill development
Magrid develops a broad range of skills across its framework. For multilingual learners, the focus is on building understanding directly through visual and conceptual experience.
Key areas include:
Number mapping
Linking numbers to quantities visually
Quantity recognition
Understanding amount without language
Number comparison
Recognising more, less, and equal relationships
Visual perception
Interpreting patterns and visual information
Working memory
Holding and applying information during tasks
This allows learners to develop mathematical understanding independently of language, building confidence and competence at the same time.
Using Magrid in practice
Magrid can be used flexibly to support multilingual learners across different environments.
It is effective for:
- independent learning, allowing learners to engage without language barriers
- classroom integration, alongside native speakers
- small-group support, targeting specific needs
- one-to-one intervention, for additional support
- learning at home, without requiring translation or teaching
The program’s consistent and language-free design allows learners to move between home and school without disruption.
This continuity supports confidence, reinforces learning, and allows learners to focus on understanding rather than translation.
Monitoring progress and supporting learning
Magrid provides clear insight into how learners are progressing, independent of language ability.
Teachers and schools can:
- track development across key skills
- distinguish between language barriers and conceptual understanding
- identify strengths and areas where support is needed
While Magrid is not a diagnostic tool, it provides valuable insight into a learner’s true capabilities beyond language.
Supporting success across languages
Multilingual learners can succeed at the same level as their peers when learning is accessible.
By removing language as a barrier, Magrid enables learners to demonstrate what they understand, building confidence and supporting meaningful progress.