https://padlet.com/karstengitter/2f4osn8so91y Oral Language Strategies for English Language Learners en-us 2018-11-21 02:10:16 UTC 2018-11-21 03:10:17 UTC hello@padlet.com karstengitter https://padlet.com/karstengitter/2f4osn8so91y/wish/306585587 - oral language as foundation of literacy
-we talk long before reading or writing
- ELLs faced with a gap due to less oral English at home
- typical "learner errors" of early learners: mispronunciation, grammar, word choice
- most ELLs are Canadian-born, often first generation
- some ethno-cultural groups failing disproportionately compared to rest who do relatively well
- most take five years to catch up for academic tasks]]> 2018-11-21 02:15:12 UTC https://padlet.com/karstengitter/2f4osn8so91y/wish/306585587 karstengitter https://padlet.com/karstengitter/2f4osn8so91y/wish/306587363 - openly celebrate languages 
- first, second, additional languages chart and discussion, incl. teacher
- immerse ELLs in an academic language -rich environment
- first language as an asset - let's use it!
- silent period is part of the process; don't push
- silence does not equate to passivity
- receptive competence (understanding) develops sooner than productive competence (speaking and writing)
-use graphic organizers to bridge that gap
-cooperative learning opportunities are of vital importance: small group, mixed with proficient speakers, emphasize value of collaboration, establish routines
- develop conversational strategies - be explicit]]> 2018-11-21 02:27:01 UTC https://padlet.com/karstengitter/2f4osn8so91y/wish/306587363 karstengitter https://padlet.com/karstengitter/2f4osn8so91y/wish/306589596 - ELLs continue to struggle, often in silence, two to three years in
- activate prior knowledge in first language
- speak only slightly more slowly
- explicit vocabulary instruction
-simplify vocabulary and sentence structure
- facial expression  and gesture of great benefit
- provide additional contextual support, such as manipulatives, pictures, diagrams, etc.
- focus on key words
- clear instructions
- check for comprehension
- model language use: pronunciation, syntax, linking words
- assessment concepts are the same: assessment for/of/as learning; provide feedback

]]> 2018-11-21 02:43:32 UTC https://padlet.com/karstengitter/2f4osn8so91y/wish/306589596 karstengitter https://padlet.com/karstengitter/2f4osn8so91y/wish/306591506 Not so much a question, rather an observation: Much of this, in terms of strategies, really boils down to best practices in general. These strategies would help all of our students, not just our ELLs]]> 2018-11-21 02:57:20 UTC https://padlet.com/karstengitter/2f4osn8so91y/wish/306591506