ESL-7200: Teaching English Language Learners

Khieu, T. (Practitioner). (2016). Components of reading [Video]. SAGE Video.
This video (6 minutes in length) provides examples of ELL students as they talk with their teacher about literacy, especially reading skills. Research-based information on reading skills is also discussed for the viewers.

Gay, G. (2018). Culturally responsive teaching: Theory, research, and practice (3rd ed.). Teachers College Press.
Read Chapter 5: Ethnic and Cultural Diversity in Curriculum Content.

Common Core State Standards Initiative. (n.d.).
The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) are a crucial aspect of instructional planning for all students, including ELL students, in most U.S. states. If you live in a non-CCSS state, please familiarize yourself with the CCSS, but utilize your state’s standards for your assignments, as desired/appropriate.

Lee, O. (2018). English language proficiency standards aligned with content standards. Educational Researcher, 47(5), 317–327.
When creating relevant learning activities for ELL students, it is important to consider both language-learning outcomes and content-learning outcomes. Outcomes should be linked to standards (Common Core, state, district, and/or otherwise).

State Board of Education Adopts Revised Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Plan. (2018). States News Service.
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) brought in updated language and policies specifically regarding ELL students in today’s public schools. The language was added to the updated ESSA, as the prior, No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) did not adequately address the needs of ELL students in our schools.

Mora-Flores, E., & Villalobos, J. (2019). Integrated English language development: Supporting English language learners across the curriculum. Shell Education.
Read Chapter 6: Written Discourse.

Ferlazzo, L., & Hull Sypnieski, K. (2016). Navigating the common core with English language learners: Practical strategies to develop higher-order thinking skills. Jossey-Bass.
Read Chapter 3: Reading; Chapter 4: Writing; and Chapter 5: Speaking and Listening.

Hoover, J., Baca, L. & Klingner, J. (2016). Why do English learners struggle with reading? Corwin.
Many ELL students may speak English quite well, navigating social situations and life skills. However, many still struggle with English literacy (reading and writing). This resource explains how teachers can best address and understand this discrepancy. All chapters have relevant information, though focus on Chapters 1, 3, and 5. Other chapters are in the optional resources for this week.

Ferlazzo, L., & Hull Sypnieski, K. (2016). Navigating the common core with English language learners: Practical strategies to develop higher-order thinking skills. Jossey-Bass.
Read Chapter 1: English Language Learners and the Common Core: An Overview; Chapter 2: Creating the Conditions for English Language Learners to Be Successful in the Common Core Standards.