Twenty Key Instructional Tools And Techniques For Educating English Learners

As the world becomes more interconnected, the ability to communicate effectively in English has become a vital skill. English learners (ELs) face unique challenges in acquiring the language, and it is crucial for educators to employ effective instructional tools and techniques to support their learning journey. In this article, we will explore twenty key strategies that can empower educators to effectively teach English learners and help them thrive in both academic and social settings.

1. Differentiated Instruction

Understanding that each student has unique learning needs, educators should tailor their instructional approaches to accommodate ELs' diverse abilities and backgrounds.

2. Language Objectives

Explicitly stating language objectives helps ELs understand the linguistic skills and knowledge they are expected to gain during a lesson.

Show, Tell, Build: Twenty Key Instructional Tools and Techniques for Educating English Learners

by Joyce W. Nutta(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23368 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	330 pages
Paperback	:	60 pages
Item Weight	:	5 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.14 x 9 inches

FREE

3. Visual Aids

Using visual aids, such as charts, diagrams, and pictures, can enhance comprehension and vocabulary development for ELs.

4. Real-World Connections

Relating classroom lessons to real-world contexts fosters meaningful connections and facilitates language acquisition for ELs.

5. Cooperative Learning

Collaborative activities and group projects offer ELs opportunities to practice English in a supportive, interactive environment.

6. Vocabulary Building

Implementing effective vocabulary-building strategies, such as word walls, context clues, and explicit instruction, enhances language development for ELs.

7. Sentence Frames and Starters

Providing sentence frames and starters scaffolds ELs' oral and written expression, helping them develop grammatically correct and coherent language skills.

8. Graphic Organizers

Using graphic organizers, such as flowcharts and concept maps, assists ELs in organizing information and improving their critical thinking skills.

9. Multicultural Literature

Integrating multicultural literature in the curriculum exposes ELs to different cultures and perspectives, fostering empathy and cultural understanding while enhancing language skills.

10. Total Physical Response (TPR)

TPR involves using gestures and physical movements to reinforce vocabulary and language structures, making learning engaging and interactive for ELs.

11. Scaffolding

Gradually reducing support and providing scaffolds such as sentence starters, graphic organizers, and think-alouds, helps ELs develop their language skills independently.

12. Model and Think-Alouds

Modeling and thinking aloud during lessons provides ELs with language models and demonstrates thought processes, supporting their language development.

13. Peer Tutoring

Pairing ELs with more proficient English speakers allows them to learn from their peers and receive individualized support in a comfortable environment.

14. Authentic Language Use

Creating opportunities for ELs to engage in authentic language use, such as through field trips, guest speakers, and online forums, enhances their language proficiency.

15. Ongoing Assessment

Implementing ongoing assessments, such as formative assessments and progress monitoring, helps educators gauge ELs' progress and tailor instruction accordingly.

16. Cultural Responsiveness

Being culturally responsive by incorporating cultural references in lessons and valuing ELs' linguistic and cultural backgrounds creates a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

17. Technology Integration

Integrating technology, such as language learning apps, interactive websites, and multimedia resources, can enhance ELs' engagement and language acquisition.

18. Grammar Instruction

Providing explicit grammar instruction and incorporating grammar-focused activities, such as sentence structure analysis, supports ELs' language development.

19. Pronunciation Practice

Offering targeted pronunciation practice through activities like role plays, tongue twisters, and pronunciation drills improves ELs' comprehension and speaking skills.

20. Home-School Collaboration

Establishing effective communication and collaboration between home and school ensures a consistent support system for ELs and reinforces language learning in various environments.

By incorporating these twenty key instructional tools and techniques into their teaching practices, educators can create an inclusive and supportive learning environment where English learners can thrive. It is crucial to remain adaptable and continuously seek professional growth to meet the evolving needs of ELs and facilitate their English language development effectively.

Show, Tell, Build: Twenty Key Instructional Tools and Techniques for Educating English Learners

by Joyce W. Nutta(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	23368 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	330 pages
Paperback	:	60 pages
Item Weight	:	5 ounces
Dimensions	:	6 x 0.14 x 9 inches

FREE

Building upon the theoretical and practical foundation outlined in their previous book, Educating English Learners, the authors show classroom teachers how to develop a repertoire of instructional techniques that address K–12 English learners (ELs) at different English proficiency and grade levels, and across subject areas.
 
Show, Tell, Build is organized around two decision maps for planning and implementing differentiated instruction for ELs: the Academic Subjects Protocol (for teachers of academic subjects) and the Language Arts Protocol (for teachers of language arts). The instructional tools and techniques described in each chapter help teachers provide communication support for ELs through showing and telling, and develop their language proficiency through building their skills. The book also discusses the demands that academic language poses for ELs and ways to assess students’ proficiency in English.
 
Show, Tell, Build provides classroom teachers, English language development specialists, literacy coaches, and school leaders with valuable knowledge and skills to support ELs’ academic success.