Teaching English Language Learners

Almost every teacher, at some point in his or her career, will be in the position of having to teach an English Language Learner (ELL). Teaching English Language Learners presents a particular challenge to educators, especially when the teacher is not fluent in the students native language. The rules vary from state to state, but in most situations ELL students will be mainstreamed into a general education classroom long before they have obtained real mastery of Standard English.

They key technique for teaching English Language Learners is differentiation of instruction. Differentiation is a popular buzzword in education these days, but it really is a crucial skill for any educator to have. Essentially, differentiation means modifying the curriculum, and each lesson, to meet the needs of different learners. It is vitally necessary when it comes to teaching English Language Learners.

Now, how you choose to modify each lesson will depend on several factors, including how many ELLs are in your class, how well they speak English, and what subject or subjects you teach.

In math, the best approach is to pair English Language Learners with other students who are fluent in English and allow them to work together. Choose partners who are advanced and comfortable in the subject area, not students who are struggling to learn themselves. The more English-proficient student can help the ELL along throughout the lesson. Just keep in mind that teaching English Language Learners is your responsibility, not your other students job! Dont expect the other children to do it for you. Check in frequently, and use graphic illustrations of concepts as often as possible. Also, incorporate those manipulatives! Give your ELL students a chance to use their hands and to visualize mathematical ideas.

In English Language Arts, you will face particular challenges teaching English Language Learners, for rather obvious reasons. The key here is patience, and again, differentiation. While other students are reading chapter books, your ELL student may be reading picture books and early readers designed for much younger students. Encourage your English Language Learners to bring in their favorite books in their native language. Then, if the students English is strong enough, allow him to explain to you what the book is about in English.

In writing, you might allow your English Language Learners to draw a comic book instead of writing a story. Then invite the student to write a short sentence explaining what is going on in each panel. If her English is not proficient enough for that, encourage the student to write just one word.

Again, when teaching English Language Learners, a lot of persistence and patience, and a little imagination, can bring that student right into the mainstream with the rest of your class.