Tuesday, March 6, 2007

Reading Prompt #7

Some of the important techniques for designing content instruction is:

  • Content is purposeful, not just a vehicle to learn language
    The language is the vehicle for content learning
  • Because each content has its own jargon, culture, and methods and employs language structures in specific ways
  • Helps students acquire academic language proficiency while learning language, rather than having to learn language first and then learn academic concepts.

Teach content in a culturally responsive manner by:
•Use literature that is culturally relevant
•Use first language cognates
•Adapt lessons that reflect contributions from all relevant groups

Adapt materials so that they are appropriate for learners, but do not sacrifice academic content.

•Use graphics
•Outline texts
•Rewrite texts
•Use audiotapes
•Provide live demonstrations
•Use alternate books

I have used a lot of these ideas in my classroom and found them to be very effective for ELLs. They allow for the students to be creative and enjoy learning at their own pace.

1 comment:

Ines Rodriguez said...

This is very true what you say each content has it's own jargon, culture and methods which employs language structure. I also think teaching literature that is relevant to the student will make it easier for them to comprehend the material and it can also act as an attention grabber because we know that sometimes it is difficult to get some students attention and for ELL's it is even more important.