Project-Based Learning for ELLs
Project-based learning (PBL) offers many benefits to English language learners (ELLs), including hands-on activities, peer interaction, rich language use, and a chance to explore personal interests.
ELLs may need some additional support or guidance in order to make the most of PBL, and the following resources share ideas on how to make it a successful experience for all students.
Featured Articles
- Supporting ELL Success with STEAM and Hands-On Learning (Part 2)
- Reader's Theater: Oral Language Enrichment and Literacy Development for ELLs
- Communication and Language Strategies for the Science Inquiry Classroom (Part 2)
- Opportunities and Challenges for ELLs in the Science Inquiry Classroom (Part 1)
Related Video
You Are Welcome Here: Supporting the Social and Emotional Health of Newcomer Immigrants
Using realia to build background knowledge
Building a cereal dispenser with ELLs through the Rube Goldberg project
"Rockville's Got Talent": Giving all students a chance to share their talents
Teaching vocabulary with digital cameras
Project-Based Learning for ELLs: Recommended Resources
Resources for educators
The following resources offer ideas for project-based learning with ELLs:
- Supporting ELLs in PBL Projects (Edutopia)
- The Benefits of Oral History Projects for Multilingual Learners (Edutopia)
- PBL with English Language Learners: A Vital Need (PBL Works)
- Support ELLs with Project-Based Learning (Confianza)
- Video: Supporting ELLs Through Project-Based Learning (Teaching Channel)
Resources for families
21st-Century Learning at Home: A Guide for Families and Caregivers of English Learners to Support Project-Based Learning at Home
This guide from the Mid-Atlantic Equity Consortium is designed for families and caregivers to support and lead English Learners through projects at home. The activities within the guide promote communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking while engaging with a child’s culture, family background, and home languages. Each project has the following sections:
- the purpose of the project
- materials suggested
- questions for children
- instruction to complete each section
- additional activities and resources