Instructional Strategies

Introduction to Working with English Language Learners

• Identifying characteristics of second language acquisition, the stages of language development, and needs of English Language Learners

• Comparing the effectiveness of different program models for English Language Learners

• Recognizing linguistic and cultural issues in the mainstream classroom

• Welcoming, supporting, and working with English Language Learners (see Classroom Strategies)

Classroom Strategies

• Developing a repertoire of reading strategies

• Incorporating writing across the curriculum

• Maximizing the use of graphic organizers

• Organizing student interactions to promote language and content development

• Identifying essential learning and designing thematic units

• Sheltering instruction using a research-based model: SIOP (Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol)

• Differentiating Instruction using a common planning framework

• Teaching vocabulary and skills in a meaningful context

• Establishing collaborative partnerships between instructional service providers (teachers across programs, aides and tutors)

• Maximizing instructional time at the classroom level