ESL Strategies

Data-Driven Strategies for English Learners

Visual Aids

Visual aids used in the classroom are essential for English language learners. Visual aids provide a different means of representation and explanation, and provides students with information that they may not have understood if it was presented to them in written or spoken form.

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Write Legibly and Use Print

Use a Predictable Routine

Label the Classroom

Labels keep materials organized while providing exposure to basic vocabulary. *Items should be labeled in English and the students’ home languages.*

Just as students learn to print before they learn 'writing' or cursive, ELs should have options to read and write with print

Routines and Expectations aren't only for social-emotional learning, they can be beneficial for English Language Learners, too!

Remember that this is hard work!Be Patient!

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Assign a Buddy

Not only can a peer or buddy provide another great language model, they can provide social support and 'low-stakes practice' opportunities. Also, feeling included in a classroom will increase engagement and participation! Also

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Reading Tips

* Have EL students read along with proficient readers* Teach vocabulary every day through conversation, reading around, and context clues (most ELs can acquire only about 5 new vocabualy words in each subject area per day)

Use Your Professional Judgement

Don't be Afraid to Try

There is no technique or method that works with every student - use trial and error as you have to!

It's Flexible

No one can tell you exactly how to make your adaptations/accommodations in you classroom. Classes, subjects, student, and more all vary!

Realia

Concrete, physical items that you can see, hold, touch, smell, etc. create an additional level of engagement and comprehension and context for educational content and vocabulary

Reduce Anxiety

Provide Great Input

Be a model of good English

Don't show feelings of frustration

Provide opportunities for students to discuss cultutrally relevant topics

Paraphrase after periods of language input

VS

Stop often to summarize and ask questions

Acknowledge strengths of all students

Carefully explain any idiomatic language (e.g. "It's raining cats and dogs"

Don't expect huge gains; work for learning in each class

Use Universal Design for Learning

Action and Expression

Representation

Engagement

There are many ways to demonstrate mastery - it doesn't all have to be a written essay or speech in front of the room!

Provide authentic, meaningful experiences and allow access to options that connect cultural backgrounds to new learning activities.

Teachers use this principle when they find more than one way to explain a concept or provide information.

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