Teaching English Language Learners: Professional Learning Community

English language learners (ELLs) are students in English language schools whose first language is a language other than English, and who may require focussed educational supports to assist them in attaining proficiency in English. These students may be Canadian born or recently arrived from other countries. ELLs come from diverse backgrounds and school experiences, and have a wide variety of strengths and needs. As all other students, they add a wealth of knowledge, experience and culture to your classroom that should be shared and celebrated!

The ideal conditions for language learning are the conditions under which young children learn their first language. English language learners need:

- to be exposed to the English language in a variety of formal and informal contexts,

- to have the opportunity to interact with more proficient language users,

- to have language directed to them that is simplified,

- to have language directed to them that is strongly linked to the context

- a learning environment that is supportive and helps ELLs feel accepted and comfortable

- to understand that we respect where they come from and appreciate them for who they are.

Teachers need to be mindful of the ELLs in their classes and plan lessons accordingly so that they can apply their previous knowledge to the new material taught to them.

Incorporating traditions they celebrate at home, their culture, special events or language into the classroom will help support their understanding of experiences in their new environment socially and academically. It is important and beneficial for educators to create lessons that are engaging, authentic and meaningful for their students. Teachers should always establish high expectations for all students, including ELLs.

How teachers can help ELLs build their confidence within the classroom:

1. Encourage ELLs to continue to develop their first language. It helps the student maintain his or her own sense of identity and allows the student to communicate at home and in their community.

2. Be careful when correcting ELLs. Teach students to have a “Growth Mindset”, all students need to know that we learn from our mistakes. Be selective when addressing errors and try to focus on one error at a time.

3. Provide on-going feedback. Celebrate small successes!