What does an effective language acquisition program look like?
Extensive research in the field of second language acquisition supports bilingual programs as effective models for second language acquisition.
What are some things I can do to make the new ELLs in my class feel comfortable?
As a rule of thumb, individuals feel comfortable in situations where they feel welcomed and valued, comfortable about taking risks, successful, respected, and
Many of the ELLs in my class are able to decode English text, but continue to struggle with reading comprehension. How can I help them develop comprehension skills?
It is important to remember that comprehension instruction does not just occur after reading is completed.
I heard that learning disabilities affect 15% of the population. Does this number increase when students are immersed in a second language? I work in an immersion school and our numbers are higher than that.
Research has shown that being exposed to a second language, even in an immersion setting, does not cause learning disabilities; however, certain factors come into play with English language learners (ELLs) that may cause them to be over-identified for
Can you help me locate resources for teaching Spanish to teachers? We are interested in the basics, but also in building vocabulary and fluency for parent-teacher conferences.
There are some excellent resources available today for helping teachers learn to communicate effectively with their Spanish-speaking students and parents. Below is a list that should help you get started.
What resources are available for teachers of ELLs that are 2, 3, 4, and 5 years old? We have quite a variety of languages in our school.
You might begin by exploring the TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) website, which offers ESL standards for PreK through 12th grade.
Where can I find teaching methodologies for ESL? I am in my second year of teaching and haven't had a methods class in four years.
Colorín Colorado has a wealth of resources that will help you in planning instruction for your ESL students.
Does it help if my ELLs know how to read in Spanish?
It helps immensely if your students know how to read in Spanish and have content area knowledge in Spanish. Several skills can easily transfer from one language to the other.
I have a first grade student who speaks both English and Spanish perfectly, but has trouble with written work in English. His parents are worried that being bilingual is holding him back. Should they start speaking English to him at home?
Many students who are English language learners have difficulty with reading and writing in English, even after they seem to be speaking the language fluently. This is in part because of limited vocabulary.
I'm looking for resources for ELL students who are not Spanish speakers. Where can I find help translating enrollment forms, developing an ELL parent guide, and developing standards-based curriculum for these students?
Much of the information on the Colorín Colorado website is applicable to all English language learners, not just those whose first language is Spanish. You are certain to find something that you can use in almost every section.