# data[].attributes.body
How to distinguish between learning difficulties and learning disabilities in struggling ELLs?

Are we not recognizing LD's in a timely manner because we're putting the blame on language acquisition?

When should you consider a LD for an ELL?

# data[].attributes.body
ESL learners are often over-identified or under identified as having a learning disability. Several ESL students are not obtaining a proper education because they are either being misdiagnosed as having an LD, while others struggling without receiving proper educational assistants

# data[].attributes.body
If educators are not knowledgeable about second language acquisition, they may confuse normal acquisition issues with disability.

# data[].attributes.body
ELL's are no more likely to have learning disabilities than native English speakers.

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.teslontario.org/uploads/research/ESLLDStrategies.pdf

http://www.psych.on.ca/getattachment/37646d71-1469-4731-a3c6-55a458a8238f/OPA-Guidelines-for-Diagnosis-and-Assessment-of-Learning-Disabilities-Sept-7-2018-%281%29-1.pdf

http://www.yrdsb.ca/Programs/PLT/Quest/Journal/2013-Identifying-a-learning-disability-in-an-ESL-student.pdf

https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/special-services/english-language-learners/7-questions-on-testing-english-language-learners-for-learning-disabilities

https://www.ldatschool.ca/language-acquisition-difficulty-or-learning-disability/

# data[].attributes.body
It is often difficult to determine the nature of ELL's exceptionality  before they are fully fluent in English.

# data[].attributes.body
An appropriate test is one that is given in both the child’s native language and in English. It should also not contain questions that require knowledge of Canadian culture that ELLs may not have.

# data[].attributes.body
Identifying language learners with learning disabilities is no easy task. It’s an inherently complex process, and much more research needs to be done.

# data[].attributes.body
Teachers need to be educated on their student’s educational background, cultural education system, and family background to truly understand the learning needs and the strengths of their students.