Teaching All Students

1.What adaptations might you make for English language learners, even though you don’t speak their language? On what basis would you make these adaptations? What resources might you use?

2.How does academic language differ from general or conversational language? List some techniques that help in fostering both types when working with EL students.

Sample Answer

Use visuals: Visuals can help ELLs understand what you are saying, even if they don’t understand all of the words. You can use pictures, diagrams, gestures, and other visual aids to help explain your ideas.
Speak slowly and clearly: When you speak to ELLs, it is important to speak slowly and clearly. This will give them time to process what you are saying and to ask questions if they need to.
Use simple language: Avoid using complex language or jargon when talking to ELLs. Use simple, everyday language that they are likely to understand.

Full Answer Section

Repeat yourself: If you think an ELL didn’t understand something, don’t be afraid to repeat yourself. You can also rephrase what you said in a different way to make it easier to understand.
Provide written materials: If possible, provide ELLs with written materials that they can refer to. This will help them to review what you have said and to ask questions if they need to.
Use gestures and facial expressions: Gestures and facial expressions can help to communicate your message to ELLs. Be sure to use them naturally and appropriately.
Be patient: It is important to be patient with ELLs. They may need more time to understand what you are saying and to respond.

The basis on which you would make these adaptations would be on the following factors:

The ELL’s level of English proficiency: The more proficient the ELL is in English, the fewer adaptations you will need to make.
The ELL’s age and cultural background: The ELL’s age and cultural background can also affect the types of adaptations you need to make. For example, young children may need more visual aids than older students.
The subject matter: The subject matter can also affect the types of adaptations you need to make. For example, if you are teaching a technical subject, you may need to use more visuals and examples.

Here are some resources you might use to help you make adaptations for ELLs:

The TESOL website: The TESOL website has a wealth of resources for teachers of English language learners.

Opens in a new window www.tesol.org
The Center for Applied Linguistics website: The Center for Applied Linguistics website also has a number of resources for teachers of English language learners.

Opens in a new window www.cal.org
The National Clearinghouse for English Language Acquisition and Language Instruction Educational Programs (NCELA) website: The NCELA website has a searchable database of resources for teachers of English language learners.

Opens in a new window ncela.ed.gov
The English Language Learners blog: The English Language Learners blog is a great resource for teachers of English language learners.