English Language Learners

Students who come into our classrooms speaking another language are already at a disadvantage.  As a teacher, it is our job to ensure that this obstacle is minimized as much as possible.

Strategies and Accommodations for English Language Learners

  • Complete daily communication notebooks
  • Explore a variety of books, magazines, books on tape, books on computer
  • Label photos of students, teachers, and common items in the classroom, such as the clock, desk, chair, etc.
  • Discuss the daily schedule
  • Play word/letter games like Pictionary, Scrabble, BINGO, and Boggle 
  • Frequent read alouds
  • Include children's primary language in print around the classroom
  • Label, define, model, and explain the strategy or skill. 
  • Provide only essential information when giving directions 
  • Identify vocabulary words that you think might be difficult for students to understand when they read the text. Write simple, brief definitions ELLs can easily understand.
  • Model think-alouds
  • Demonstrate strategies that show everyone makes mistakes and how to deal with them
  • Celebrate each ELLs' progress with recognition notes and praise
  • Encourage reread of familiar books​