English Language Learners
I found the video about supporting English language learners, as well as the book chapter about it, to be both informative and helpful. In the book, it was interesting to learn about the three dimensions of language proficiency that Cummins (2003) established. These dimensions are conversational fluency, discrete language skills, and academic language. It was also helpful to get strategies for increasing the comprehension skills of ELLs, such as books on tape. I have not yet had the opportunity to work with ELLs, but I know I will eventually, so the knowledge in this chapter will help me figure out the best approach to assessment.
In the video, a good point was made about not assuming students come in with certain background knowledge, and the importance of finding out what they do know. It’s crucial to use this as a starting point so you can figure out where to go from there in terms of instruction. I like how the video talks about the importance of continuing to incorporate the student’s native language in to their English language learning. It makes sense to do this, not only because it’s part of their culture, but because it is hard to go from speaking all Spanish to being expected to speak in their native langage. I like the idea of slowly transitioning them from one to the other, while still keeping their native language. Finally, I enjoyed the videos in the classrooms and was happy to see successful ELL programs.
Thanks for always posting early Kristin
I agree that it was great to see these successful ELL programs in action. The comprehension section was interesting to me too. I started thinking back to when I used to study Spanish in high school, and even though I was a fairly good student, when we started reading full books during the later years (such as Don Quixote), I felt like I was so bogged down figuring out every single word that the book sort of lost it’s humor and overall meaning. I guess comprehension usually comes later, but for young children just learning, it is important that they understand at least some of what they are reading in order to be interested in learning and so that their frustrations to not become all-encompassing.
I also liked the idea of having books on tape for these children. When you have these tapes they are able to learn how to say the words correctly. It also helps them with their comprehension skills, because the majority of children comprehend text thet is read to them better than text that they read to themselves. I also like the idea of books on tape because they can relisten to book if they need to.