Supporting English Language learners (ELL) in the classroom requires careful planning, explicit instruction and continuous support. Teachers of ELL students need to be familiar with the stages of language learning as well as the challenges second language learners encounter especially when trying to master a new language in addition to grade level content.
To make connections to the students we teach, teachers need to be aware of their own teaching practices. Intonation, speech patterns and rate of speaking all influence how second language is acquired. How concepts are explained and what strategies are utilized by the teacher will certainly influence acquisition as well. Think about your personal experiences in learning a new language, how did you feel when you had to speak, what was helpful, harmful and just overwhelming?
The first time I was required to learn a second language was in high school. Spanish was a fun class that…
View original post 337 more words
Opening Doors to Inquiry 