Supporting English Language Learners: Strategies for Classroom Success

Objective: To equip teachers with strategies and resources to effectively

support English Language Learners (ELLs) in the classroom.

Approximate time of completion: 2 hours

Introduction:

As the number of English Language Learners (ELLs) in classrooms continues to increase, it is essential that teachers have the knowledge and tools necessary to support these students' language and academic development. In this learning activity, you will explore strategies and resources to help you effectively support ELLs in your classroom.

Activity Steps:

Step 1 (20 minutes): Supporting ELLs in the Mainstream Classroom: 12 Strategies for Language Instruction

To effectively support ELLs, it is crucial to understand their unique needs and challenges. Begin by reading the article and accompanying videos from Colorín Colorado, which provides an overview of who English Language Learners are, what their needs are, and how teachers can support them in the classroom. As you read and watch, take notes on the key points and strategies that you can incorporate into your own teaching practice.

Video:

https://www.colorincolorado.org/article/supporting-ells-mainstream-classroom-12-strategies-language-instruction

Step 2 (30 minutes): Culturally Responsive Teaching

Culturally responsive teaching is an essential component of effective ELL instruction. In this step, explore the resources on this website from the Teaching Tolerance project, which offers strategies and tips for creating a culturally responsive classroom. Read through the articles and consider how you can use these strategies to support ELLs in your classroom.

Website: https://www.tolerance.org/classroom-resources

Step 3 (40 minutes): Effective Instructional Strategies for ELLs

There are many effective instructional strategies that can support ELLs in their language and academic development. In this step, explore the resources on this website from the WIDA Consortium, which offers a range of instructional strategies and resources to support ELLs. Browse through the different strategies and resources, and select a few that you can implement in your classroom.

Website: https://wida.wisc.edu/teach/standards/in-action

Step 4 (30 minutes): Engaging Families of English Language Learners

Engaging families in the education of ELLs can have a significant impact on their academic success. In this step, explore the resources on this website from Colorín Colorado, which provides strategies and resources for effectively engaging families of ELLs. Read through the articles and consider how you can use these strategies to engage the families of your ELLs.

Website: https://www.colorincolorado.org/families

Reflection Prompt:

After completing this learning activity, take some time to reflect on what you learned and how you can apply it in your classroom. Consider the following questions:

• What new strategies or resources did you learn that you can incorporate into your teaching practice to better support ELLs?

• How can you create a more culturally responsive classroom environment to support ELLs and all students?

• What steps will you take to engage families of ELLs in your classroom?

• How will you continue to learn and grow in your knowledge and understanding of how to effectively support ELLs?