Teaching English Language Learners

Book excerpt: Teaching English Language Learners is a handbook for elementary staff who work with English Language Learners, but who don’t have specialized training in English language acquisition. The book is a handy reference that describes all stages of learning English, and how home language and culture affect English Language Learners in school. It provides a thorough picture of English Language Learners by describing English language levels, adjustment behaviors, family interactions and expectations, non-academic areas of need, and how to discern whether or not student difficulties are language based. It also offers practical strategies for teaching writing and describes general Project Based Learning activities appropriate for both large and small groups. The book supports classroom teachers, para-educators, volunteers, teachers in training, specialists and other adults working with elementary English Language Learners.