How Can You Assist Language Learners Past the Intermediate Plateau?

Provide Grade-Level Reading Materials
Emphasize Future Opportunities
Leverage Personalized and Visual Learning
Incorporate AI Language Software
Engage with Cultural Context
Learn Through Peer Teaching
Explore Diverse Reading Genres
Join Advanced Practice Groups

§ Speakers

Lauren Lankford · Erol Ashik · Sandra Santamaría-Colula

§ Lauren Lankford

Library Media Specialist, La Vernia ISD

Provide Grade-Level Reading Materials

In our school, one strategy that we have to help language learners overcome the intermediate plateau is to make sure that they are reading books that are on their grade level, both in class and when reading for enjoyment. Many times, language learners are given lower-grade material, which can be boring and even insulting for them to read when they are mature enough for more challenging material.

One thing that we do is to have the same book available for them in their native language and in English. So, if a Spanish speaker is reading 'Great Expectations,' they have an English copy of the book and a copy of the book in Spanish, so that they can see a proper translation. We also make sure they have access to translation software and native-language dictionaries in class for speaking and writing support.

§ Erol Ashik

English Teacher, Bahçeşehir koleji

Emphasize Future Opportunities

I like to use positive reinforcement with my students. I like to let them know how fortunate they really are to be in the Dual Diploma program and show them the light that is awaiting them at the end of the tunnel. In addition, since I was born and raised in the greater Los Angeles area myself, I try to pass down my schooling experience to our students to let them know what a great opportunity and life experience they have waiting for them in the future. I find this works best. I also have them watch videos on YouTube of major cities and universities in the United States that they are leaning towards, so they can get a feel of what it's like to study there in the near future.

§ Sandra Santamaría-Colula

Kindergarten Dual Language Teacher

Leverage Personalized and Visual Learning

Navigating the challenges of teaching language to kindergarten students requires adaptable strategies tailored to the linguistic context of the classroom. Whether students predominantly speak Spanish or English at home, fostering language development at this crucial stage demands innovative approaches.

Teaching in kindergartens with diverse language backgrounds presents unique challenges. For Spanish-speaking students, leveraging their natural affinity for literacy in their native language accelerates reading and writing skills. Incorporating relatable texts into lessons helps them connect with language on a personal level. Conversely, for English-speaking students, introducing familiar vocabulary in both languages bridges comprehension gaps and encourages linguistic exploration.

Recognizing the benefits of peer collaboration, I emphasize pair work in the classroom. Grouping students by proficiency levels, indicated by colors like blue and green, fosters a dynamic learning environment. Pairing students with varying language abilities allows for mutual enrichment and builds confidence in language acquisition.

To reinforce literacy skills, I craft personalized stories where students' names serve as protagonists. By focusing on the initial letter sound of each name, students engage in letter recognition and tracing activities. Comparing letters and exploring their presence in classmates' names enhances phonological awareness and reinforces letter formation.

Visual aids such as Venn diagrams facilitate comparative exercises between Spanish and English letters. This strategy enhances students' phonological awareness by identifying similar and different sounds across languages. By reintroducing this effective tool, inspired by educational insights from Digna Marte from the company Taju, I reignited student engagement and language exploration.

Integrating bilingual vocabulary at the beginning of each class primes students for language learning. Highlighting cognates – words with similar meanings and spellings in both languages – reinforces language connections and expands vocabulary. Utilizing digital platforms like Wordwall.net for interactive games and activities further supports vocabulary retention and provides... More in your email.

§ Written with AI