Over 10% of K-12 students in the United States are English language learners (ELLs). These students’ first languages are not English, so they experience unique training and education to help them develop proficiency. To set these students up for success, the education system needs more educators trained to Teach English for Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
TESOL teachers are specially trained to improve learning while addressing the cultural challenges ELLs face in English-speaking elementary schools. There are specialized programs that offer online TESOL certification for educators who want to develop these key skills, including the online Master of Science (MS) in Childhood Education and TESOL (Dual Certification) at the University of Mount Saint Vincent (UMSV).
ELL Teaching in Action: What Teachers Can Do
This program includes a course called Practicum in Childhood Education and Supervised Student Teaching in TESOL: Grades Pre-K-6 that prepares graduates to support the academic success of young ELLs. Graduates are also equipped with a unique set of strategies that encourage language development in young ELLs. These strategies include:
Incorporate Cultural References for TESOL Students
Acknowledging, respecting, and recognizing the diverse cultural backgrounds of students is non-negotiable in any learning environment, and the need is even greater when teaching ELLs. By incorporating students’ cultural references (like focusing lessons on students’ cultural holidays or favorite ethnic foods) into the learning activities, teachers can help ELLs feel and more connected to their learning environment.
Using Visual and Musical Aids for TESOL in Education
Visual and musical aids like pictures, diagrams, songs, and physical gestures are powerful tools that bridge language gaps. For decades, teachers have used songs to help students learn the alphabet, the days of the week, and more. Songs combine language with rhythm and melody, making it easier for students to remember vocabulary and phrases, and learn natural language patterns and pronunciation.
Encouraging Collaborative Learning for TESOL Students
Partnerships between ELLs and English-speaking peers create a supportive learning environment that allow ELLs to practice language skills in a conversational setting while forming connections with peers who are fluent in English. Both of these benefits help ELLs feel more connected to the school and their education as a whole.
Customizing Lessons to the Language Level of Learners
Customize lessons and course materials to match the language skills of each student. To learn effectively, students must be able to grasp the concepts being taught and understand the class materials being used.
Leveraging Technology in TESOL Education
There are many educational apps, language learning software, and online resources available for educators to use as teaching aids. These are designed to provide interactive and engaging opportunities for students to practice English at their own pace.
Creating a Language-Rich Classroom
Creating a classroom environment where the English language is constantly visible immerses ELLs in English. Teachers can do this by placing labels on classroom objects and making English-language books readily available.
Making Learning Fun for TESOL Students
Games like I-spy and rhyming activities encourage language learning in a fun and practical way.
These activities are also great opportunities for students to use their developing language skills in real-life scenarios.
Collaborating with Administrators
Educators working with ELLs must advocate for the needs of their students and collaborate with administrators to ensure students have the resources required for success. Teachers must work with administrators to obtain access to appropriate educational materials, language support services, and professional development opportunities focused on the needs of ELLs.
Getting the Families of TESOL Students Involved
When families of ELLs are engaged in their education, the chances of academic success increase.
Building and maintaining an open line of communication with parents allows teachers to provide resources that support language learning at home and invite families to participate in classroom activities.
Self-Evaluation and Continuous Improvement
Educators must continually assess and evaluate their teaching methods. This is equally important for ELLs. Encouraging ELLs to self-evaluate and acknowledge their own successes teaches them to independently assess their progress and recognize areas for improvement.
TESOL educators must learn to customize their approaches and lessons to the challenges their students face. Programs like the MS in Childhood Education and TESOL (Dual Certification) at UMSV foster these skills and provide strategies that empower educators to create inclusive and effective learning environments where ELLs thrive. The program also prepares interested candidates to become board-certified behavior analysts (BCBA), which deepens their understanding of appropriate classroom behavior and social practices.
Learn more about the University of Mount Saint Vincent’s online Master of Science in Childhood Education and TESOL (Dual Certification) program.
