Is there only one pathway to language proficiency for our ELLs?
Welcome to Equipping ELLs, where we delve into the intricacies of teaching English language learners and empower educators with valuable insights. In this episode, host Beth Vaucher embarks on a journey to explore the diverse pathways to English proficiency, challenging the notion of a singular route to mastery.
What is language proficiency?
Proficiency extends beyond mere competence; it signifies mastering a skill or task to a high standard. For ELLs, proficiency encompasses speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills, along with cultural awareness and sensitivity to language nuances.
What does a proficient teacher of ELLs look like?
A proficient ELL teacher is culturally competent, adept at differentiation, and skilled in integrating students’ cultural backgrounds into teaching practices. Continuous professional development, effective communication with families, and advocacy for students’ needs are central to their role.
How do we help our students on their journey to language proficiency?
Is there only one pathway to proficiency? Well… yes and no. While there are foundational building blocks to language learning, each student’s journey is unique. Factors such as learning styles, cultural backgrounds, and life experiences shape their acquisition of skills and knowledge.
To support ELLs effectively, educators must tailor instruction to meet individual needs. Whether it’s addressing newcomers’ language barriers or helping hesitant speakers gain confidence, understanding each student’s pathway is key to fostering growth. As educators, embracing the diversity of pathways to English proficiency empowers us to create inclusive learning environments where all students can succeed academically and linguistically.
If you’re seeking further support, explore our new PD platform, Pathways to Proficiency, designed to offer bite-sized, practical PD covering your most pressing questions. Visit equippingells.com and use the code PODCAST to save 30%—don’t miss out, as this offer expires soon!
Together, let’s equip ourselves with the knowledge and resources to ensure every ELL student thrives.
–
Resources:
- Join the Equipping ELLs Membership (We have everything you need for your school year!)
- Shop our TpT Store for Hundreds of ELL Resources
- Check out our new Pathways to Proficiency training!
- Apply to share your story of language learning on the Equipping ELLs podcast!
Connect with Beth:
More about Equipping ELLs:
We all know that teaching isn’t easy, but it doesn’t have to be this hard. Equipping ELLs is a podcast for both ESL specialists and homeroom teachers who are looking for effective and engaging ways to support their English Language Learners without adding to their endless to-do list. Tune in each week to hear tips, strategies, and inspirational stories that will empower you to better reach your ELL students, equip them with life-long skills, and strengthen relationships with colleagues and parents.
Your host, Beth Vaucher, is the founder of Inspiring Young Learners. She is an ESL certified homeroom teacher with over 10 years of experience teaching in the US and internationally. Her background of M.Ed in ESL and Curriculum and Instruction combined with her experience has led her to develop a bestselling newcomer curriculum that has sold in over 90 countries around the globe. She brings a different perspective to teaching ELLs from her years teaching and living abroad and working with ELLs from around the world. You will walk away from each episode with the ideas and tools you need to transform your experience as a teacher and cultivate a thriving and welcoming environment for your ELL students.
