Effective Strategies for English Language Learners

Millions of students in the United States are English Language Learners. Whether they are new to the country or were born here with non-English-speaking parents, students who are acquiring a new language while working through the complexities of academic content need the best help (and best practices) we can provide. Below are some strategies to keep in mind.

Collaboration

Allowing students to work together in pairs or small groups is especially helpful for an English Language Learner. It not only combats feelings of isolation; students who speak the same language can help one another feel more at home. Language becomes something to celebrate, rather than a barrier. If there are bilingual students in your classroom, they can work with English Language Learners as well. As the teacher, get comfortable hearing students speaking in their native languages as they process a new one!

Visuals

Images, photos, charts, etc. are essential in helping anyone acquire language. A student who is an English Language Learner will then have something to connect to and will build confidence through “knowing the answer.” Anchor charts that remain in the classroom can be helpful in that their content is predictable and constant. They can provide a familiar reference point for all students.

Wait Time

Increasing wait time is a best practice across the board. English Language Learners, especially, need increased wait time. Think about it: They are hearing a new language, translating that language into their native language, thinking of a response, and then translating their response from their native language to English. Not to mention gathering the courage to speak in front of the class. It’s exhausting just thinking about it! And our English Language Learners could certainly benefit from our patience and understanding.

Culturally Responsive Teaching

Essential in any classroom, cultural responsiveness is more than a potluck lunch with food from home. It’s about recognizing, celebrating, and utilizing students’ cultures in the classroom. Look back at our section on collaboration; don’t be afraid of students speaking in their native languages. Incorporate a culturally relevant curriculum; consider authors, historical figures, scientists, athletes, etc. from a wide variety of backgrounds (and from the backgrounds of the students sitting in front of you). Understanding that students may possess different communication styles is another aspect of cultural responsiveness. And, of course, we must always establish and hold high expectations for all learners.

Any student, in any classroom, could potentially benefit from these practices. After all, as most teachers will tell you, effective strategies for some students end up being effective strategies for many students.