Tips for Working with English Language Learners

Compiled by Hayley Minner, SDMS

Slow DownWhenever possible, speak more slowly

and pause between sentences so English Language

Learners have time to interpret and translate

what is being said

Increase Wait TimeGive students time to think and

process the language.Many of our English Language Learners have

to translate what is being said in to their native language before they can bring meaning to the words, then think of a response in their native language and then translate it back in to English in order to participate. By the time this process is complete, instruction has continued on to another topic.

Modeling is the Keyo If student

responses contain incorrect grammar, acknowledge the response and then repeat it, modeling correct grammar.

o Model activities and expectations for all assignments

Please, Don’t Force Reticent

Students to SpeakIf beginning students

aren’t comfortable speaking ~

have them respond by pointing,

answering yes or no, or choosing among

two options

Repeat, Repeat, Repeat!!!Repeat instructions and

questions whenever possible.Repeat instructions using a

variety of vocabulary – don’t just repeat the exact sentence or phrase 3 times.

Respond to the MessageEven if grammar isn’t perfect –

If you understand what is trying to be said… Respond!

Don’t explicitly correct the utterance

ADAPT YOUR MATERIALS

Isolate important vocabulary, add graphic organizers, and augment with pictures

TeachingESL

Students

Modify Repeat Be Patient Model

Write It Out Being able to see the words rather than just hearing them is a tool in language learning

Demonstrate and Use Manipulatives

• Hold up pictures, act it out, use gestures or draw it…

Be Creative!!

Thank You For Your Cooperation

and Consideration For All Students!

Together, we can make a difference!