English language learners (ELLs) are a diverse group of students who come to school with very different educational and cultural experiences. ELLs represent one-fifth of the student population in public schools.
Teachers should not be afraid to recognize the different needs and learning styles of ELLs and take the time to personalize instruction. This can result in positive outcomes for all students in your classroom.
Cultural Differences
Students from different cultures have many differences when it comes to the way they learn. For example, some cultures acquire information through reading books while others acquire it by speaking with people from other countries or through the Internet.
These cultural differences can affect English Language Learners in multiple ways, including their academic achievement and their ability to learn the language. It can also impact how they conduct themselves in the classroom.
In addition, differences in cultural attitudes can influence how ELLs think about schooling. For example, some cultures expect students to sit quietly and listen to lectures while other cultures prefer active participation in class discussions.
Teachers can help ELLs develop cultural competence by showing them how to appreciate and respect other cultures, and by modeling appropriate behavior in their own classrooms. In addition, educators can help ELLs learn the nuances of their own cultures by introducing them to traditions and customs. This can help ELLs feel more comfortable in their new learning environment.
Language Differences
ELL students are often at a disadvantage when it comes to language acquisition. They may need more time to learn and master grammar and pronunciation, and they will also have difficulty with vocabulary and retention.
The age and immersion level of an ELL also has a significant impact on language acquisition. For example, younger ELLs may learn more efficiently if they are given opportunities to speak English at home as well as in the classroom, while older ELLs will have less access to this type of exposure.
In addition, some ELLs are at a disadvantage because of the circumstances of their families. They might be dealing with poverty, non-citizenship and/or familial transiency, which can affect their learning and language development.
These factors can lead to ELLs having lower levels of self-esteem and motivation for language learning than their peers. This is important because it affects the way they approach their academic work and the types of supports they need.
Socioeconomic Status
Many students are from low socioeconomic backgrounds, which can impact their academic performance. ELLs are no exception.
One study of ELLs from migrant families found that their English language proficiency (ELL) development trajectories were more uneven than those of monolingual peers.
However, this study also showed that ELLs made significant gains in English vocabulary from kindergarten to second grade.
They were able to learn new words quickly, but their standard scores remained below those of their monolingual peers.
This finding is consistent with findings that children from low SES environments tend to have lower linguistic abilities than their monolingual peers. This may be a result of both the poverty that ELLs often live in and their bilingualism. Nevertheless, this research provides some important insights into how SES influences language. It also raises some important questions about how to assess the development of ELLs in relation to their socioeconomic status. These questions are important for educators to consider as they provide support and services to ELLs.
Learning Styles
One of the most important aspects of learning is understanding your own and your students’ learning styles. This will help you to create appropriate and engaging lessons that will make learning fun for everyone in your class.
Traditionally, educational theory has been based on the idea that every person has a different learning style and that knowing your student’s learning style will allow you to teach them more effectively. However, some studies have suggested that this theory may not be as valid as it was once thought to be.
Visual learners absorb information better when it’s presented in a visual format. They enjoy taking notes and are good at remembering things they see or read.
Auditory learners like lectures, class discussions, and verbal instructions. They’re also good at retaining information by speaking about it.
Kinesthetic learners are more naturally tactile and need hands-on learning. They benefit from outdoor lessons that empower them to explore and discover.