Teaching English-Language Learners with Learning Difficulties
Here is some practical information and guidelines for special education teachers, school psychologists, administrators, and program specialists.
English-language learners with learning difficulties fall into four categories:
- Students with learning disabilities
- Students with language disabilities
- Those who are at risk for developing significant learning disabilities
- Those who are receiving preferential interventions
The term English-language learners (ELL) has replaced the terms still in current use, such as Limited English Proficiency (LEP) and English as a Second Language (ESL). The term English-language learners is now preferred because it draws attention to the instructional needs of students.
Below is a cohesive collection of teaching strategies to use when working with ELL students.
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A critical concept for second-language development for students with and without learning difficulties is comprehensible input students being able to understand the essence of what is being said or presented to them.
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The purpose of providing comprehensible input to English-language learners with learning difficulties is to ensure that instruction deals with grade-appropriate content, concepts, and skills.
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The most common problem in providing meaningful access to the curriculum has been the practice of viewing English-language learners with learning difficulties as simply low-performing native English speakers.
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Providing curriculum access does not absolve districts of their responsibility to teach students how to read and develop other core academic skills. Below-grade material can be used if doing so better assists students in learninga core academic objective.
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Successful educators of English-language learners with learning difficulties understand that demonstrating language proficiency depends heavily on contextual factors.
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These initial steps will help immensely in preparing the right kind of instructional environment for English-language learners with learning difficulties.
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A list of several key instructional principles that can be used with English-language learners with learning difficulties.