What does language load refer to?

Language load refers to the number of unrecognized words a student encounters, which directly impacts their ability to comprehend and engage with the language being used in instruction or materials. It highlights the challenges that students, particularly those who may not be fully proficient in the language of instruction, experience when they come across numerous unfamiliar terms.

In educational settings, a higher language load can lead to difficulty in understanding content, as students may struggle to make connections with new information if they cannot grasp the vocabulary. Therefore, addressing language load is essential for fostering successful learning experiences, especially for English language learners or students with limited exposure to academic language. Reducing the number of unrecognized words can help enhance comprehension and ensure that all students have equitable access to the curriculum.