ELL Strategies for Success

Cómo crear un aula acogedora

Boy and girl shaking hands in kindergarten classroom

Aprende cómo crear una aula acogedora para sus estudiantes bilingües con estas estrategias de Colorín Colorado.

Es probable que sus estudiantes que están aprendiendo inglés (ELL) provengan de una cultura con tradiciones y valores familiares distintos de la cultura dominante estadounidense. Estos niños no sólo tienen el desafío de aprender una lengua nueva sino también de adaptarse a un entorno cultural y a un sistema escolar desconocidos. Imagínese cómo sería entrar en un aula extranjera donde usted no entendiera el idioma, las reglas, las rutinas o el comportamiento esperado. Día tras día, los estudiantes ELL se adaptan a nuevas formas de decir y hacer cosas. Como su maestra, usted es un lazo importante para vincularlos con esta cultura y sistema escolar desconocidos. Hay varias cosas que usted puede hacer para que las transiciones de los alumnos ELL sean lo menos complicadas posibles.

Etapas de adaptación cultural

Del mismo modo que los estudiantes ELL atraviesan etapas de aprendizaje del idioma inglés, también pueden pasar por etapas de adaptación cultural. Sin embargo, estas etapas pueden ser menos definidas y más difíciles de notar. Si conoce estas etapas, puede comprender mejor las acciones y reacciones "inusuales" que quizá sólo sean parte de la adaptación a una nueva cultura.

  • Euforia: Los estudiantes ELL pueden experimentar un período inicial de emoción acerca de su nuevo entorno.
  • Choque cultural: Los estudiantes ELL pueden experimentar ira, hostilidad, frustración, nostalgia del hogar o resentimiento hacia la nueva cultura.
  • Aceptación: Los estudiantes ELL gradualmente aceptan su nuevo entorno.
  • Asimilación /adaptación: Los estudiantes ELL aceptan y se adaptan a su entorno y a su "nueva" cultura.

Estrategias del aula: Ayudar a sus estudiantes ELL a adaptarse a su nuevo entorno

Aunque no hay técnicas de enseñanza específicas para hacer que los estudiantes ELL sientan que pertenecen a una nueva cultura, hay cosas que usted puede hacer para que se sientan bienvenidos en el aula.

Aprenda sus nombres

Tómese tiempo para aprender a pronunciar los nombres de sus estudiantes ELL correctamente. Pídales que digan su nombre. Escuche atentamente y repítalo hasta aprenderlo. Si el nombre de un estudiante es Pedro, asegúrese de no llamarlo /peedro/ o Peter. Además, practique la pronunciación correcta de los nombres de los estudiantes ELL con la clase para que todos los compañeros lo pronuncien correctamente.

Ayúdelos uno por uno cuando sea posible

Es posible que algunos estudiantes ELL no respondan voluntariamente en clase o pidan ayuda incluso si la necesitan. Los estudiantes ELL pueden sonreír y asentir con la cabeza, pero esto no significa necesariamente que comprenden. Acérquese a su pupitre para ofrecerles ayuda individual de modo amigable. Puede resultar útil que los estudiantes ELL se sienten cerca de su escritorio.

Asigne un compañero

Identifique a un compañero que realmente quiera ayudar a su estudiante ELL como un par. Este estudiante puede asegurarse de que el estudiante ELL comprenda lo que tiene que hacer. Incluso resultará más útil si el compañero conoce el primer idioma del estudiante ELL.

Use un plan diario de clase visual

Aunque los estudiantes ELL aún no comprenden todas las palabras que usted usa, es posible que entiendan la estructura de cada día. Mediante dibujos en la pizarra o imágenes en velcro, usted puede mostrar el plan diario de clase todas las mañanas. Escribiendo las horas y colocando dibujos al lado de palabras como lunch (almuerzo), wash hands (lavarse las manos), math (matemáticas) y field trip (excursión), los estudiantes ELL pueden tener una idea general de las actividades del día.

Use un intérprete

Los intérpretes en el lugar pueden ayudar a aclarar malentendidos que surgen por problemas de comunicación y diferencias culturales. Si no hay un intérprete en el lugar (contratado o algún voluntario entre el personal de la escuela), busque un adulto; puede ser otro padre que conozca la escuela o "conozca el sistema" y que esté dispuesto a ayudar en esta situación. En situaciones difíciles, no sería apropiado que el intérprete sea otro niño.

Los estudiantes ELL pueden cometer "errores" involuntarios al tratar de adaptarse a su nuevo entorno cultural. Constantemente trasladan lo que ellos conocen como conductas aceptables de su propia cultura al aula y la escuela de Estados Unidos. Tenga paciencia mientras los ELL aprenden inglés y se adaptan.

Lleve la cultura de los estudiantes al aula

Aliente a los estudiantes ELL a compartir su idioma y su cultura con usted y con la clase. Una actividad de demostración es una buena oportunidad para que los estudiantes ELL traigan algo que represente su cultura, si lo desean. También pueden contar un cuento popular o tradicional usando palabras, imágenes, gestos y movimientos. Los estudiantes ELL también pueden intentar enseñarles a sus compañeros algunas palabras de su lengua materna.

Use materiales relacionados con las culturas de sus estudiantes ELL.

Los niños responden cuando ven libros, temas, personajes e imágenes que les resultan familiares. Busque lograr un buen equilibrio de libros y materiales que incluyan distintas culturas. Vea una lista de libros recomendados por ¡Colorín Colorado!

Rotule los objetos de la clase en ambos idiomas

Rotular los objetos de la clase ayudará a que los estudiantes ELL comprendan mejor su entorno inmediato. Estas etiquetas también le ayudarán a usted a dar explicaciones o instrucciones. Empiece con objetos cotidianos, como "door/puerta", "book/libro", and "chair/silla".

Incluya a los estudiantes ELL de un modo que no los intimide

Algunos estudiantes ELL pueden tener aprehensión de expresarse frente a un grupo. Pueden tener miedo de cometer errores enfrente de sus pares. Su silencio también podría ser una señal de respeto hacia usted como autoridad y no una señal de su incapacidad o reticencia a participar. Busque maneras de hacer participar a los estudiantes ELL de un modo que no los intimide; por ejemplo con actividades de respuesta física total y proyectos de aprendizaje cooperativo.

Haga participar a los estudiantes ELL en el aprendizaje cooperativo

Algunos estudiantes ELL están acostumbrados a trabajar de manera cooperativa en tareas asignadas. Lo que para usted puede parecer hacer trampa es en realidad un estilo de aprendizaje adquirido culturalmente, un intento del alumno de imitar, ver o repetir lo que tiene que hacer. Use este rasgo cultural como una ventaja en la clase. Asigne compañeros o pares que actúen como tutores para que los estudiantes ELL puedan participar en las actividades de la clase. Consulte estrategias de aprendizaje cooperativo que puede usar con los estudiantes ELL.

Ayude a sus estudiantes ELL a respetar las reglas establecidas

Todos los alumnos deben comprender y respetar las reglas de su clase desde el inicio, y los estudiantes ELL no son la excepción. Enséñeles las reglas del manejo de la clase lo antes posible para evitar malentendidos, problemas de disciplina y sentimientos de baja autoestima. Aquí le damos algunas estrategias que puede usar en la clase:

  • Use elementos visuales como fotos, símbolos y sistemas de recompensa para comunicar sus expectativas de manera positiva y directa.
  • Demuestre el idioma a los estudiantes ELL usando ejemplos físicos con rutinas del aula y actividades instructivas. Los estudiantes ELL necesitan ver su ejemplo de comportamiento o el de sus pares para imitarlos cuando usted quiera que se sienten, que caminen hasta el tablón de noticias, que trabajen con un compañero, copien una palabra, etc.
  • Sea coherente y justo con todos los estudiantes. Cuando los estudiantes ELL comprendan las reglas, hágalos igualmente responsables por su conducta.

References

Adapted from: Eastern Stream Center on Resources and Training (ESCORT). (2003). Help! They don't speak English. Starter kit. Oneonta, NY: State University College.

And from: Tharp, R., Estrada, P., Stoll Dalton, S., & Yamauchi, L. (2000). Teaching transformed. Achieving excellence, fairness, inclusion, and harmony. Boulder, CO: Westview Press.

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Comentarios

It is assuring to know that my school has some of the things mentioned in the Welcoming video, such as bilingual signs throughout the school. To help me welcome non English speakers into my classroom, I often think about how it would be if I were in their country, entering a new classroom, and I didn't speak the language. I think that would be isolating and scary. With those considerations, I try to be mindful of the buddy that I assign to a non English speaker in hopes that would ease some of the fears and discomfort.

It's important to be cognizant of the fact that even the simplest of things i.e. opening a locker, finding the restroom, locating a classroom, etc... might be stressful for an incoming ELL student.

ELL students can sometimes be the hardest to acclimate into a new school. The language barrier is often mistaken for not having the intellect and students can easily become frustrated. Making sure that you have the class and classroom prepared for a new student is key. Teaming up a new student with one that speaks the same language is very helpful. Understanding school procedures like the bell schedule, lockers, lunchroom etc. can make the difference in the transition phase. Having materials in their language and learning a bit of each language will aid in making the students feel comfortable.

These video were really good refreshers as a elementary school teacher to help our new comers.

Great information. I have done some of what was suggested and the other I will add!

This article has some great tips about how to welcome ELL students into my classroom and make them comfortable and ready to learn.

I think the videos and reading are a great place to start with ELL students. Giving great strategies and resources to our ELL students will allow them to succeed while in our class. My favorites are learning a few words in the student's native language to make them feel welcome and pairing them up with a buddy that can help translating.

Great way to invite students from different cultures and languages into the classroom.

This was an interesting video. I think having signs posted throughout the school in multiple languages is one beneficial improvement to school climate.

I help EL's feel welcome in my classroom by assigning them more than one partner. This allows them to get to know several students at a time. That way when we are doing small group collaboration or activities they can feel comfortable with a group of students instead of just one. Also, I allow their peers to communicate instructions, class/school rules to them so they can adjust a little more easily.

I feel in order to make students feel comfortable in the classroom, no matter, the language, first and foremost a student needs to feel they are in a safe environment. Ways I learned to accomplish this is to learn things about the student's culture, learn a few phrases in their language, give extra modeling & one on one assistance, and assign a peer buddy.

I really liked the useful information such as greeting students in their native language when they come in everyday.

I have seen how students who speak English as a second language learn very quickly when we create this welcoming environment. Peer partners, signage in both languages with visuals, and incorporating their native language in the classroom in ways like reading books in both English and Spanish, helps instill a sense of confidence, security and pride.

This video was very helpful; I gained more tools to add to my toolbox to help me better address the needs of my students.

This is very useful information for classroom teachers and really help break it down to make applicable to every day teaching.

I do believe in everything stated here. It is important to know your students name to make them feel like you care. It is also important the they understand your expectations are no different for them then any other student.

There was one teachers took the time to learn 5 different languages to say "I don't know" They took the time

Keeping a welcoming environment help student to adjust to school culture and improve in academics

Whenever I receive a new ELL student, I regularly touch base with them during their first couple of weeks to make sure things are going well in all of their classes, as well as which classes they may be struggling with. Fortunately we have Peer to Peer tutoring to also assist with these students with their academics.

It is critical to make ELL students feel comfortable. We set the tone by learning the pronounciation of the student's name, connecting them with helpful peers and making them as comfortable as possible in this new environment.

I have two students in my class that have a home language other than English. I will provide more reading material to share their cultural background with others and make them more comfortable in the school environment.

The videos were very helpful and gave great ideas about welcoming new students to your classroom.

This year I have 4 ELL students who speak Spanish at home. I try and say something to them in Spanish at least once a day. The smile that comes across my students' faces is priceless. Pictures are used frequently for schedules and centers. I am sure to focus on new vocabulary when I read to the children. This helps all levels of students, not just my ELL students. Some of my parents feel more comfortable with an interpreter during conferences. This way they are able to ask any questions they might have about their child.

It is important to welcome the ELL child. Know that they are intelligent just do not know English. Get to know the exact pronunciation of their name and get to know some phrases that make them feel at home. Assign them a buddy. Understand that they may be coming from a very different place. Be consistent and fair and patient.

My student from Bosnia informed me that she never received formal lessons in English; rather, she loves watching American television, and she taught herself English this way. This gives me the idea that television in English can help to make transitioning easier to American life. I have to admit, that it does scare me a slight bit to think of what negative aspects of American life my student was exposed to. I concur that it's vital to include the child's culture into the classroom. This is a re-occurrence in my classroom each time we sing happy birthday to a student.

The TPR, or total physical response activities sound like a great idea. The student can learn the new English words much quicker when seeing them with a specific action. This can help the more visual ELL learners to learn quicker.
It makes sense also to touch base with your ELL student after directions are given, to make sure that they understand what is expected of them. Having a peer assigned to help them will help to make sure that they are always included.

This shows the need for teachers to relate to all students, and especially English learners. A welcoming environment will assist them in learning both the language and the subject matter.

In order to make my students feel more welcome in class I try to find a student that they are able to communicate with. I also make an effort to let them teach the class and I different native words and phrases. I send correspondence in the the students' language and provide a translator at conference.

It is important that the classroom be a comfortable place for EL students to learn and grow in all academics. I totally agree with what the presenters shared.

It is important to create a welcoming environment for ELLs by learning to pronounce their name correctly and when possible, assign a peer partner who speaks their language. Providing lots of visual clues around the classroom are helpful for ELLs.

I like the ideas of pronouncing their name the correct way and learning a few phrases in their language and giving them a buddy who speaks their language whenever possibl.e

Video and information was valuable to learning about the ELL population

Very interesting information with several strategies, some that I was familiar with and some new strategies.

I really loved this article and the videos. I had to learn English as second language myself and know how important it is to fell loved and accepted by teachers and peers.

Great idea to learn little bits of other languages to make students feel comfortable.

Asking students to share a part of their culture with a story is wonderful. A great way to learn another's culture is to share a food item that is special to their culture. Students love this!

Being respectful of the culture of students in very important to making them feel welcome in an academic setting. Things that show respect include learning words and phrases in the native language of students, pronouncing students' names correctly, and using other students from the same culture to help familiarize the student to the classroom.

Using the techniques mentioned here do make our ESOL children more comfortable. I currently use several of these strategies in my classroom now.

I love the idea of learning basic phrases in each language represented in your classroom. It is also important to translate all communication the goes home to parents. Also, it is so important to pronounce the students' names correctly.

In my classroom I usually assign a peer partner and translator when possible. I use labels or visuals to help model common requests, items, and pharses.

I understand that it is very important to start the year off on helping parents and students our class procedures and use many visual prompts as needed.

I understand that it is important to bridge the gap here at school.

Great article. It confirms many things that I currently implement with my ELL's. I enjoy learning new languages so I'm always trying to learn theirs. My biggest take away is to label items in both languages.

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