Gestures and Tangible Items

As I sit in a conference on teaching EL's, the discussion of teaching vocabulary became a top discussion. The presenters discussed how looking up definitions alone, are not effective in the fact that words have multiple meanings and may be hard to distinguish the correct meaning in the text.

Instead we discussed the value of teaching definitions by using gestures and tangible items. This helps students make meaning either visually or orally.

Here are some other ways to help with understanding vocabulary.
1. Video clips
2. Previewing text before reading
3. Making Connections
4. Activating prior knowledge
5. Using context clues
6. Picture cards
7. Visuals
8. Translating to native language (bilingual text)

My big "Aha Moment" was when we discussed how the strategies we use for our English Language Learners is good for ALL Learners.  As classroom teachers receive more ELL's in their classrooms, it's reassuring to know that what we do for the ESL student, we can do for the struggling English learner.

As we collaborate to meet the needs of our English Learners, what are some other ways to teach vocabulary to our students? Please share.

Speaking English: The Struggles with Fluency

I've taken plenty of Spanish classes and my biggest struggle was and still is speaking. I can't get the words organized in my head quick enough to say a sentence let alone have a conversation. I remember this when I'm teaching English Learners. It's hard and very frusturating. When I talk to them and ask a question, it sounds like I'm speed talking and it takes time for students to process what it is exactly I'm saying or asking. Responding is an entirely different challenge. 

Over time it gets easier, especially since most students learning English are submerged in an English speaking environment. I have found that speaking fluently tends to come after the student has solid a foundation with listening and reading. 

I've been working with a young boy from Korea. Last year he came late in the school year and over the summer he had some regression in the English language like most English Learners do. His parents and teachers are both concerned. As I brainstormed on ways to help this little guy, it clicked....teach him how to speak. Sounds reluctant, isn't that what I have been doing!?!  

This time we did things a little differently. I found an engaging big book with fun vibrant colors. We discussed the pictures and we introduced new vocabulary by looking at the pictures. Then I said something about the picture and had the boy repeat exactly. We focused on the fluency of repeating what I said. Lastly, it was his turn to come up with a sentence about the picture. Having previously modeled this exercise, made it much easier for him. We will continue these type of modeling exercises to see how well we can gain fluency in speaking. Our next discussion will be the fun illustrations of the work from Dr. Suess! 

MAISA

It's the same struggle each year...what to teach ESL students in the small amount of instructional time provided. What is effective and purposeful?!? So much has changed. The WIDA Access Test, Common Core and our resources available are limited. The good news for ESL Teachers and ALL teachers is MAISA. Log onto Oakland Schools MAISA and filter your search for Elementary ESL.  Oakland Schools  MAISA offer curriculum maps for teachers to follow.  These maps align with Common Core.  I look forward to using this resource throughout the school year to drive my instruction for my level 1 and level 2 English Learners ( EL's).  Check it out!