Teaching Dual Language Learners

Teaching Dual Language Learners

Presentation Link (Google Slides):

What is a "Dual Language Learner"?

Children that do not speak English as their first or primary language

ELL students do not only speak Spanish; other languages include Arabic, the Chinese languages, Vietnamese, Russian, etc (NCES).

Instructional Strategies:

• Use simple repetitive phrases.
• clear expectations/
• learn basic words and phrases in student's primary language.                          
• Include visuals and support of the English language.                                            
• Include student's native language and culture (as often as possible).
• Extend time for understanding, directions, conversations, ect. 
• Assign a buddy (possible can speak the native language).
• language learning apps.
• encourage verbal responses over non-verbal.
• Remedial and skill-teaching sites.

Dual Language Supporting Apps/Websites:

• Duloingo
• gaming format to help students/teachers learn a new language; 30 different languages included.
• Stride Academy
• Interactive site; math. reading, and language arts. Language controls/voiceover options. (aligns with Common Core Standards).
• MobyMax
• Placement test determines student level. Gaming format to practice specific skills. (aligns with Common Core Standards).
• Freckle
• Focuses on Math and ELA (aligns with Alabama College Readiness Standards)
• ReadTheory
• Placement test to determine student level. Teacher can assign specific number of quizzes to be completed each week, month, year, etc. Teachers can check back on student progress.

Additional Resources/Websites:

1. Kristen Vibas' Top 5 Favorite Resources for teaching ELL students
2. NAEYC's Guide to Welcoming Dual Language Learners
3. Specific Strategies to Support Dual Language Learners
4. 5 Best Apps for English Language Learners
5. 50 Incredibly Useful links for learning & teaching the English language

Video: Why Supporting CA's Dual Language Learners Matter

Reflection:

Dual Language Learners could make up a portion of my classroom in the future. I need to start now, preparing for how I will welcome, include, instruct, and accommodate for these students. This presentation taught me great apps to include in my classroom, that will benefit my dual language learning students. I had never heard of Stride Academy, MobyMax, and Freckle. These are great resources because they align with the Common Core and Alabama College Readiness standards. I will provide my DLL students with these resources to benefit their learning experience. I will also learn key words and phrases (in their native language), so that I can better communicate with these students.