Language is at the heart of learning. The way educational content is written can either support or hinder a student’s ability to understand new concepts. That’s why plain language—clear, straightforward wording that avoids unnecessary complexity—is an essential tool in educational publishing. At Northeast Editing Inc., we recognize that plain language plays a crucial role in making learning materials accessible to all students, regardless of their background or reading level.
When students struggle with comprehension, it isn’t always because they lack ability. More often, the problem lies in the way information is presented. If educational materials are overly complicated or full of jargon, students may become frustrated and disengaged. By using plain language, educators and content developers can help students grasp concepts more easily, build confidence, and achieve academic success.
What Is Plain Language?
Plain language is communication that is easy to understand the first time a person reads or hears it. It involves using clear vocabulary, simple sentence structures, and logical organization to ensure that information is accessible to the widest possible audience.
Key Elements of Plain Language in Educational Content:
- Clear Vocabulary: Using familiar, everyday words instead of complex or technical terms when possible.
- Concise Sentences: Writing in short, direct sentences to make content easier to follow.
- Logical Structure: Organizing information in a clear and predictable way.
- Defined Terms: Explaining any necessary academic or subject-specific vocabulary in a way that makes sense to students.
- Engaging Formatting: Using bullet points, headings, and visuals to break up text and improve readability.
In education, plain language doesn’t mean dumbing down content. Instead, it ensures that all students—regardless of reading level, learning style, or background—can access and understand important concepts.
Why Plain Language Matters in K-12 Education
1. Improves Comprehension for All Students
Plain language makes it easier for students to absorb information, especially in subjects that introduce complex ideas, such as science and math. When students don’t have to struggle to understand the words themselves, they can focus on learning the material.
For example, instead of saying:
“Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants and some other organisms utilize sunlight to synthesize nutrients from carbon dioxide and water.”
A clearer alternative would be:
“Photosynthesis is how plants make their own food. They use sunlight, water, and air to grow.”
Both sentences convey the same idea, but the second version is much easier for young readers to grasp.
2. Supports English Language Learners (ELLs)
Students who are learning English as a second language often struggle with complex sentence structures and unfamiliar vocabulary. Plain language helps ELL students by using clear wording and simple grammar, making it easier for them to build language skills while learning new subjects.
For instance, a history textbook might say:
“The American Revolution was precipitated by escalating tensions between the British Crown and the thirteen colonies, culminating in a war for independence.”
A plain language revision could be:
“The American Revolution happened because the American colonies and Britain could not agree. Over time, their arguments turned into a war for independence.”
By simplifying sentence structure and vocabulary, educators make history more accessible to all students.
3. Helps Students with Learning Disabilities
Students with learning disabilities, such as dyslexia or processing disorders, often struggle with dense text. By breaking information into manageable pieces and using straightforward language, we can create content that is more inclusive.
For example, replacing large blocks of text with bullet points, short paragraphs, and visuals can make reading less overwhelming. In math, using clear step-by-step instructions rather than long paragraphs can help students focus on solving problems rather than decoding instructions.
4. Encourages Engagement and Retention
When students can easily understand what they are reading, they are more likely to stay engaged. Complex or overly academic language can be intimidating, leading students to give up before they even begin. Plain language keeps students motivated and encourages them to take an active role in their learning.
For example, instead of presenting a long, formal explanation of a scientific principle, content developers can introduce it with a real-world example or question:
“Have you ever wondered why ice melts in the sun? That’s because of heat energy! Let’s explore how heat changes different materials.”
This kind of approach immediately draws students in and makes learning feel more personal and relevant.
How Content Developers Can Apply Plain Language Principles
Educational writers and editors play a vital role in ensuring that learning materials are accessible. Here are some best practices for incorporating plain language into educational content:
1. Know Your Audience
Understanding the age group and reading level of your audience is key. A third-grade student will need different language than a high school senior. Using readability tools like the Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level test can help ensure content is appropriate for the intended readers.
2. Use Active Voice
Active voice makes sentences clearer and more direct. Instead of saying, “The experiment was conducted by the students,” use “The students conducted the experiment.” This simple change improves readability and keeps students engaged.
3. Define Difficult Words
Some academic terms are necessary, but they should always be explained in a way that students can understand. For example:
“The Earth’s orbit (the path it takes around the sun) affects the seasons.”
4. Use Visual Aids
Charts, diagrams, and illustrations can reinforce plain language by providing additional context. Pairing a definition with an image or an example helps students connect new ideas to what they already know.
5. Test for Clarity
Before finalizing educational content, it’s helpful to have teachers, students, or parents review it. If students can easily understand the material without additional explanation, the content is likely effective.
Final Thoughts: Making Learning Accessible for All
At Northeast Editing Inc., we believe that education should be inclusive and accessible to every student. By using plain language, we can create content that supports comprehension, engagement, and success for all learners.
As writers, editors, and educators, we have a responsibility to ensure that learning materials empower students rather than frustrate them. By prioritizing clarity, simplicity, and readability, we can break down barriers to learning and help students of all backgrounds and abilities reach their full potential.
Plain language isn’t just about writing simply—it’s about making sure every student has the opportunity to understand, learn, and grow.