As teachers, we will have students from varying backgrounds and with various needs and we must be prepared to teach them all. This month, we explored the topic of teaching English Language Learners in the classroom. The question I posed to my mentor team was, "What strategies or resources do you use to help your class/program be responsive to cultural diversity and English Language Learners?"
Mrs. Bates wrote, "We have several clubs on campus that embrace diversity. Recognizing them and asking for announcements from students involved is a start.
I try to make sure I know what level ESL (our school makes a big point to say that they are English as a Second Language) ... their level will greatly impact their ability to do everything from take notes to tests. Science terminology is hard for English Language Students.
Encourage all students, to do FFA activities and speaking contests. Work extra hard with the terms/words.
We have a strong AVID program at school. This is for students that are first-generation college bound. Most of these students come from culturally diverse backgrounds.
We have a Spanish speaking aide in our office to help with parent communication or to translate handouts."
Mr. Bittner shared with me that at the beginning of each year, teachers in his school receive a packet
of information, tips and tricks, etc for teaching English Language Learners. Additionally, they receive
the scores of their students on the WIDA (World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment) English Language Proficiency Standards. This information allows teachers to see where their students stand and how their needs can be met. Mr. Bittner also has a co-teacher in each of his classes which is a great aid. Having a co-teacher allows the instructional team to spend more one on one time with students who may need it.
Mrs. Bates wrote, "We have several clubs on campus that embrace diversity. Recognizing them and asking for announcements from students involved is a start.I try to make sure I know what level ESL (our school makes a big point to say that they are English as a Second Language) ... their level will greatly impact their ability to do everything from take notes to tests. Science terminology is hard for English Language Students.
Encourage all students, to do FFA activities and speaking contests. Work extra hard with the terms/words.
We have a strong AVID program at school. This is for students that are first-generation college bound. Most of these students come from culturally diverse backgrounds.
We have a Spanish speaking aide in our office to help with parent communication or to translate handouts."
Mr. Bittner shared with me that at the beginning of each year, teachers in his school receive a packet
of information, tips and tricks, etc for teaching English Language Learners. Additionally, they receive
Mr. Hughes explained that at Penns Manor they do not have many
English Language Learners so he has not had to work with these accommodations. He says that if he did have ELL students he would make any accommodations his students needed.
After reviewing what each of my mentors shared with me, my main takeaway is that each school, each year, and each student is different and as teachers we must be informed, prepared, and flexible to accommodate individual needs.
After reviewing what each of my mentors shared with me, my main takeaway is that each school, each year, and each student is different and as teachers we must be informed, prepared, and flexible to accommodate individual needs.
Victoria, your team shared some great information and resources with you regarding ESL/ELL students. It's awesome that each of your mentors has different experiences and approaches to working with this type of student, and thank you for including each of their perspectives on the topic. Did any of them share any resources that you found to be especially helpful and that you would like to use with your own ESL/ELL students?
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