This publication seeks to offer educators and policy-makers guidance on strategies that have been effective in instructing English language learners (ELLs). The authors begin by outlining key contextual factors that decision-makers should take into account when making instructional choices for English language learners, then follow with a brief overview of bilingual and English-only instructional models. Finally, they consider the influence of the language of instruction on academic outcomes for English language learners. Regardless of the model that school districts select, teachers must use the most effective strategies to accelerate student learning and maximize instructional time; this publication suggests research-based instructional strategies appropriate for a range of ELL instructional models. Appendices include: (1) Instructional Methods and Strategies; and (2) Bilingual Cooperative Integrated Reading and Composition (BCIRC) Activities. (Contains 1 table and 5 footnotes.)