Strategies For Supporting ELLS In The Classroom
At ECAAS we believe the growth of all students is supported by creating a positive learning environment. Most elementary teachers try to provide a welcoming classroom environment and establish a predictable structure.
A predictable classroom structure is important because beginning EL students may not initially understand verbal cues. A predictable classroom structure can reduce fear and anxiety, creating an environment of comfort and security. Predictable classroom structure enables a child to know what to expect so the child can organize their behavior to be successful.
When a child learns the schedule and norms of a classroom, the child is more likely to arrive on time, follow the rules, and engage effectively in applying their cognitive skills to learning. Studies have shown that predictable classroom structures also aid in language development.
Suggestions for creating a predictable classroom environment
- Develop consistent routines and schedules.
- Post the daily schedule.
- Use predictable signals for getting student attention, transitions, lining up, ect.
- clearly defined and posted behavior expectations.
- Establish limits, act firmly, and follow through.
- Use predictable procedures for passing out materials.
.
Researchers estimate that over 10 percent of students in the United States, that equates to more than 4.8 million kids are English language learners (ELLs). Teaching EL students successfully requires keeping your classroom on task and under control. In the Continental blog post, dated, April 29, 2021, Classroom Organization English Language Learners Teaching Strategies. The writer shares some effective classroom management strategies, techniques and tips for effective classroom management for teachers working with ELL students. To read full article click here
Benefits Of Teaching Social And Emotional Learning (SEL) Skills
Social and Emotional Learning SEL is not considered a designated subject like history or math. However, it is important that SEL be woven into the fabric of a school’s curriculum because for many ELLs, school is the primary place where they can learn American social and cultural norms. Sometimes modeling is enough for students to pick up on social cues and skills. At other times curriculum that supports roleplaying of social skills is needed.
The ECAAS teams strongly believes that all students need social-emotional and character skills to succeed in school, work and life. Social emotional learning (SEL) helps students learn to better comprehend their own emotions, to feel those emotions fully, and demonstrate empathy for others.
Social and emotional learning curriculum teaches crucial life skills, including self-awareness, how to process one’s own thoughts and feelings, and how to express them to others. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) teaches students how to develop a positive self-image and relationship-building skills
Research suggest that when children learn skills for problem solving, working with others, and managing emotions, student behavior and academic performance improves. Benefits to teaching social emotional learning (SEL) skills.
Improves academic performance of students
Improves school and class climate.
Increases student motivation.
Improves student confidence
Teaches problem-solving skills.
Reduces behavior problems.
Helps students set and meet goals.
Reduces emotional distress.
Teaches study skills and habits.
Improves student empathy and connection.
In a recent report from National University, titled, Social Emotional Learning (SEL) & Why It Matters for Educators. National University reported that students who participated in SEL programs saw an 11 percentile increase in their overall grades and better attendance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona’s SEI Requirements
What is SEI instruction?
Structured English Immersion (SEI) is a technique for rapidly teaching English to English Language Learners. The term was coined by Keith Baker and Adriana de Kanter in a 1983 recommendation to schools to make use of Canada’s successful French immersion programs.
What is the objective of SEI?
The objective of the SEI Classroom is to teach one or more specific identified skills within the English Language Proficiency Standards appropriate for the English proficiency level(s) of students in the class. Is an SEI endorsement required in Arizona?
Is an SEI endorsement a requirement for all teachers in Arizona?
All Public School teachers working with English learners delivering required minutes of the SEI models are required to have an ESL, BIL, or SEI Endorsement.
What are the requirements for all Arizona SEI models?
Three sets of training are essential for successful implementation of the SEI Models. All SEI Classroom teachers shall receive all three trainings.
- Implementation Training, English
- Language Proficiency Standards Training.
- English Language Development Teaching Methods Training.
What are the time requirements for Arizona SEI program models?
Arizona Revised Statute (A.R.S.) §15-756.01 requires that the models include a minimum of 120 minutes per day of English language development (ELD) for grades K- 5, and a minimum of 100 minutes per day of ELD for grades 6-12.
What types of SEI programs are allowed by the state of Arizona for instruction in public schools?
Approved SEI Models
SEI Program Model Implementation Guide.
Pull-Out Model.
Two-Hour Model.
Newcomer Model.
50-50 Dual Language Immersion Model.
Click Here For more information on Arizona SEI Endorsement visit the Arizona Department Of Education
