English language learners (ELLs) are faced with many difficult tasks in an English speaking culture and classroom. They must absorb the content instruction while their English skills are still being developed. This can be a very intimidating and challenging time in the lives of these students. However, there are many helpful tips to keep in mind when working with these students!

 

How to improve instruction for ELL students:​

• Make learning visual

• Build in more group work

• Communicate with the ESL teacher

• Honor the “silent period"--many new language learners go through this period 

• Allow some scaffolding with the native language and embrace it within the classroom

• Look out for culturally unique vocabulary and share this with students 

• Use sentence frames to give students practice with academic language 

• Pre-teach whenever possible

• Learn about the cultural background of your students

• Communicate objectives clearly

• Be flexible with classwork and assessments 

• Accommodate material and work as necessary 

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How to improve technology instruction for ELL students:

The following instructional techniques and methods were identified as the most effective for teaching computer skills to LD and ELL students:

• Hands-on labs

• Simple, step-by-step instructions

• Lots of large graphics

• Information presented in small chunks

• Real-world exercises

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