Supporting & Growing Multilingual-English Language Learners
Unpacking Standards-Referenced Grading for English Learners: Beyond Language Proficiency
Standards-referenced grading promises to measure what students know, but for English Learners, a key question remains: How do we assess comprehension and knowledge when the medium is a language they're still acquiring? This post explores the nuances of SRG and offers strategies to ensure it accurately reflects an EL's academic understanding.
The World is Our Classroom: Navigating Differences in Educational Systems
What seems like a simple classroom rule can be a major source of confusion for newcomer students. This article highlights critical differences in educational norms globally and provides teachers with concrete strategies for bridging the cultural gap.
A World Away: Back to School from a Newcomer EL's Perspective
Behind a newcomer's quiet demeanor is often a rollercoaster of loneliness, anxiety, and acculturation stress. Learn how a newcomer EL’s social-emotional journey profoundly impacts their learning and what teachers can do to help.
Unleashing the Full Linguistic Repertoire: How Translanguaging Benefits English Learners
Ready to empower your English Learners? Dive into how teachers can strategically leverage translanguaging in the classroom, from peer discussions to L1 scaffolding, all backed by cutting-edge research.
Navigating the Iceberg: Understanding BICS and CALP in English Language Learners
Why do some ELs sound fluent but struggle academically? Uncover the 'iceberg' of language proficiency with BICS (social language) and CALP (academic language). This post breaks down their development and offers practical teaching strategies.
Aiming High: Why Rigorous Grade-Level Standards are Essential for English Learners in High School
High expectations matter for English Learners in high school. Discover why rigorous grade-level standards are essential for their academic future and explore research-backed strategies to help them access challenging English courses.
Weaving a Tapestry of Belonging: Honoring Cultural Diversity in Our Schools
Creating a school where all cultures are celebrated, especially those of our English Learners, is vital for their well-being and academic success. Explore research-backed ways to weave a tapestry of belonging in your school community.
Two Sides of the Same Coin? Teaching Reading and Language to English Learners
While intertwined, teaching reading and teaching language to English Learners are distinct endeavors. Explore whose role each takes, from decoding to grammar, and how research informs effective practice.
From "Foreigners" to "Multilinguals": Tracing the Evolving Language of English Learners
Diverse students in a collaborative classroom setting
The ESOL Teacher: Language Expert or Content Ally? A Debate on Roles
Language or content? This blog post debates the core role of the ESOL teacher and explores how to effectively support multilingual learners in the classroom.
Beyond the Plateau: Understanding and Supporting Long-Term English Learners (LTELs)
Long-Term English Learners (LTELs) face unique challenges, often plateauing despite years of instruction. Explore the research-backed strategies needed to break through these barriers and foster academic success.
Unpacking the Unique Needs: Supporting SLIFE Students in the Academic Realm
Understanding the complexities of SLIFE students is crucial for their success. Discover instructional strategies, including building foundational literacy, scaffolding content, and addressing socioemotional needs, to empower these learners.