Teaching English Language Learner (ELL) students can be a challenge for new teachers. It is essential to understand their needs and to accommodate instruction that takes into account their cultural background and worldview wherever possible. I’ve gained important insights about how to handle potential problems when teaching ELL students from my observations of a class with my mentor. Hence, it is crucial to reflect on those findings in detail.
Firstly, it is essential to reflect on how I have addressed the language functions and form of the class. The class had several students who struggled with both of these concepts. The children in question, especially, lacked vocabulary, so we created a “word wall” with relevant terms translated into the ELLs’ native language, Spanish. Hence, the gap in language form and functions of ELLs was significantly lessened.
Addressing the correlation between written and verbal expression is also crucial. Firstly, we allowed the students to converse in their native language with peers who shared it, thereby improving their vocabulary. Next, we employed the “think-pair-share” method, which involved posing questions to the class, having them discuss in pairs, and having them record their conclusions on paper before presenting them to the teacher (“Integrating Speaking”, 2021). These techniques enabled ELLs to open up and begin speaking and writing in English.
However, it was important to make accommodations for the language needs of ELLs. In addition to the “word wall”, we have utilized pictures, which represented the relevant terms. They assist ELLs by providing them with a tangible topic to discuss when they are first forming thoughts (“Integrating Speaking”, 2021). Hence, the students were provided with adequate accommodations to understand and learn the class content.
Additionally, we have provided ELLs with instruction that has advanced their understanding in their subject area and supported their language development. We have provided them with papers in simplified English that included the terms and topics of the classes, in addition to allowing them to converse with their peers in their own language. Thus, the instructional process was tailored to help them understand the content area and advance their language skills.
The two additional questions for this reflection were the most efficient way to teach ELLs and the biggest challenge in that. Based on my mentor’s experience, the answer to both questions is understanding the cultural background of the ELLs. It is challenging due to the linguistic barrier and additional research, but it is also rewarding, as the teacher will be able to customize the teaching process. This, in turn, can improve their motivation and academic outcomes.
Hence, ELL instruction is a complex sphere with unique challenges. However, teachers can enhance the performance of their ELL students by customizing and adapting their instruction to meet the students’ specific needs. With the help of various practices, the teacher can better understand their students and help them acquire language skills. Therefore, a skilled and understanding educator can bridge any language barrier and give their students a promising future in the classroom.
Reference
Integrating Speaking and Writing for ELLs. (2021). A World of Language Learners.