Some ELL Strategies

Observe the “Silent Period”.  Students need time to listen and observe English before speaking it.

 Build lots of vocabulary and understanding through demonstration and repetition.

 Use pictures, objects, stick-drawings, gestures, etc., to make meaning clear.

 Speak in clean language: short, clear sentences.  Commands are excellent, followed by a demonstration of what you want done.

 Use the 3 Golden Intelligences of ESL teaching: Musical, Artistic, and Kinesthetic.

 Use peer-tutoring whenever possible to keep students on-task with understanding.

 Use computer programs, graphic organizers, books on tape, bi-lingual dictionaries, singing, arts and crafts, videos, and game-playing to promote whole language learning.

    Set goals for language learning.  Expect basic interpersonal communication skills (BICS) to develop from 1 to 3 years.  Expect cognitive academic learning proficiency skills (CALP) to develop from  4-7 years.

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