Graphic Organizer of Charlotte's Web

Graphic organizers are tools that allow students to organize ideas and information in a visual and hands-on way.

Drawing of children watching people on a stage.

In this post, I’ll highlight some information from Tim Shanahan’s article about background knowledge in American Educator. I’ll then share a table and flow chart adapted from the article that will help you decide how much background knowledge to teach to ELLs.

Dr. Kenji Hakuta is the Co-Chair of Stanford University's Understanding Language initiative and a leading expert in the implementation of the Common Core State Standards with ELLs.

Sticky notes and pens

Comprehension checks are a quick way to monitor students' understanding in real time.

Students using maps

Reading a map is an important skill for students to use in many different content areas.

Two students pointing at plants

There are many engaging ways to teach vocabulary — a key to content learning and reading comprehension.

Pages