ESL Final Reflections

I sometimes question my effectiveness with my ESL students.  Now I feel I have the tools needed to help assist ESL students and support them more in class. This class has been an eye opener to many methods to promote reading, writing, and literacy.  I have thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to taking more. When the school year starts, I will be ready!

Promoting Literacy

When selecting and evaluating ESL material you must keep in mind the level of the reader, level of the reading material, and the content of the reading material.  Many of my students are beginner to intermediate English language learners.  So, selecting a book on a high school reading level about knitting would not be the best choice.  On the other hand, selecting a book for my early readers (Grades K – 3 reading level) and intermediate (Grades 4 – 8 reading level) that incorporates the student’s culture would be more appropriate.  

Because several ESL learners struggle with literacy in their L1, it is vital to support and nurture that need.  Sharpening skills in the student’s native language will assist in L2 literacy.  Keeping students engaged is the key to building comprehension and reading skills.

 

Teaching ESL

Through the course of four years, I have taught several English as a Second Language students.  Reflecting back, I wonder how truly effective I was in the past.  There has been very limited training and professional development on ESL students, strategies and methods that help assist them, and suggestions of how to help ESL students become more acclimated when entering the classroom.  As I go through the Ed.S. program and take more courses focusing on ESL, I'm learning what I wish I had known four years ago.  Making ESL students feel apart of their new environment is key to their success.

Talk to you soon,
Patrice