Teachers of ELLs: Keep it simple. Stay consistent.
In the bustling landscape of English language learning, teachers often find themselves grappling with the challenge of effectively supporting newcomer students. In Episode 119 of the Equipping ELLs podcast, host Beth Vaucher dives deep into the transformative potential of two fundamental principles: simplicity and consistency. Beth illuminates how educators can create a welcoming and structured environment to empower newcomer success.
The Importance of Simplicity: A newcomers’ transition is usually overwhelming. For these students, we need to cut through the noise and focus our time on what matters most. Streamline procedures and communication for ELLs. Simple, effective strategies like utilizing go-to flashcards and providing visual schedules for students can be incredibly beneficial. (See the link below for our picture dictionary, translated into 17 languages!) Simplicity lays the foundation for effective language acquisition and emotional well-being.
Practical Strategies for Consistency: Building upon the theme of simplicity, consistency plays a crucial role in nurturing newcomer success. Teachers of ELLs should establish predictable routines and support systems, allowing students to feel secure and confident in their learning journey. From implementing daily speaking and writing cards to setting up weekly routines, host Beth Vaucher shares actionable strategies for educators to maintain consistency across diverse learning environments.
There are inevitable challenges that arise in ELL instruction, but we want to encourage you to remain adaptable while upholding simplicity and consistency. Whether navigating language barriers or resource limitations, you must stay focused on student needs and making deliberate adjustments. By fostering a supportive community and remaining committed to continuous improvement, you can overcome obstacles and drive meaningful progress for newcomer students.
This episode serves as a beacon of guidance for educators seeking to unlock the full potential of their newcomer students. By embracing simplicity and consistency, teachers can create an environment where ELLs thrive academically, emotionally, and linguistically. As Beth demonstrates, it is through these steadfast principles that educators will see their students soar!
Resources:
- Join the Equipping ELLs Membership (We have everything you need for your school year!)
- Shop our TpT Store for Hundreds of ELL Resources
- Picture Dictionaries available in 17 languages!
- Grab our best-selling Newcomer Bundle
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.
