As your school year starts, you realize that you have three ELLs who are newcomers to the United States. Discuss how a comprehensive literacy program addresses their needs, drawing attention to specific components of the framework that are particularly relevant. Then discuss any additional scaffolding you would offer to support these children's needs.
As evidenced on p. 272 of the Weaver text, the ELL students who were in the “book flood” program (which provided the students with story books of higher interest) showed greater improvement in comprehension, word identification, and phonics skills than those who were given direct and systematic instruction. Some of the strategies mentioned here were: sustained reading, shared reading, book discussions, and a modified language experience approach. I agree that all of these would be effective methods for reaching ELL’s and improving literacy skills, but I would also add: read alouds, books on tape, guided reading, and guided writing. I would also want to provide them with a peer literacy partner who could help them in the classroom.
In the primary grades, I would try to mix in as much that was familiar to them as possible by bringing in objects that they are familiar with (and maybe know the English word for) and environmental print that they know to add to mini-lessons within shared reading. I would also implement an integrated inquiry lesson with peer support to maintain motivation and give them reasons to read and write.
Heather, I love the idea of a "book flood". I think Weaver explains it perfectly. The idea of "flooding" these children with many types of books in order to increase personal interest is amazing. This also allows them to build new connections and have many discussions involving new experiences. I also, enjoyed reading about your peer buddy for the ELL student. I think this is a great idea to foster a new friendship, as well as new reading and writing experiences.
ReplyDeleteI found that I would also use reading and writing workshops for new ELL students. I feel that Weaver does an excellent job of describing ways to increase student involvement while reading and writing. I have found that by implementing a comprehensive literacy program seems to be the key to reading and writing success. The broad exposure is a great way to get children reading and writing.