English Language Learners (ELL)

Definition

English Language Learners (ELL) are students who are in the process of acquiring proficiency in English, typically because their primary language is not English. This group encompasses a diverse range of learners, including those from various cultural backgrounds and educational experiences. Supporting ELLs is crucial for their academic success, as they often need specialized instruction to navigate academic language development effectively.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ELLs may come from various linguistic backgrounds, including Spanish, Mandarin, Arabic, and many others, making it essential for educators to tailor instruction accordingly.
2. The development of academic language for ELLs involves acquiring vocabulary, grammar, and discourse skills needed for success in school subjects like math and science.
3. Understanding the difference between social language (BICS) and academic language (CALP) is critical for teachers to support ELLs effectively in their learning.
4. ELLs may face challenges not only with language but also with cultural differences, which can impact their participation and engagement in classroom activities.
5. Effective assessment of ELLs should include both language proficiency evaluations and content knowledge assessments to provide a comprehensive understanding of their learning needs.

Review Questions

• How do ELLs benefit from specialized instructional strategies in the classroom?
  • ELLs benefit from specialized instructional strategies, such as sheltered instruction and bilingual education, which are designed to support their unique language development needs. These strategies help bridge the gap between their primary language and English, allowing them to better understand academic content. Additionally, they provide a more inclusive environment where ELLs can engage with peers and participate fully in classroom activities.
• In what ways does understanding the difference between BICS and CALP help educators support ELLs?
  • Understanding the difference between Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills (BICS) and Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) helps educators tailor their teaching methods to meet the needs of ELLs. BICS refers to everyday conversational skills, while CALP involves the more complex language required for academic success. By recognizing this distinction, teachers can implement strategies that build both social communication skills and the academic language proficiency necessary for ELLs to excel in school subjects.
• Evaluate the impact of culturally responsive teaching on the success of English Language Learners in academic settings.
  • Culturally responsive teaching significantly enhances the success of English Language Learners by valuing and incorporating their cultural backgrounds into the curriculum. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and relevance for ELLs, encouraging active participation and engagement in learning. By integrating students' experiences and perspectives into lessons, educators can better connect with ELLs, ultimately leading to improved language acquisition and academic performance.

Related terms

Bilingual Education: An educational approach that uses two languages for instruction, often aimed at supporting ELLs while promoting proficiency in both their native language and English.

Sheltered Instruction: A teaching method designed to make academic content more accessible to ELLs by integrating language development with subject matter instruction.

Culturally Responsive Teaching:

An instructional approach that recognizes and values students' cultural backgrounds and incorporates them into the learning process to enhance engagement and comprehension.