Written communication with EL families can be challenging when you don’t know their native language, and translation services are scarce in your school. Follow these simple tips for creating documents that families will be more likely to understand...
Articles that address questions teachers ask(ed) Dr. Mooney about English learners
Teachers aren’t the only ones who can provide comprehensible input for English learners. Sometimes the best source of input comes from peers during well-designed group activities.
Sometimes bilingual students seem uninterested in speaking their native language with others. Although this is a complex issue, there are at least three reasons that might be at the heart of their reluctance.
There are many reasons why English Learners might be hesitant to speak during whole class discussions. Teachers can consider these three ideas as they work to encourage all students to share their thoughts with others.
The questions usually start the same way, “Dear Dr. Mooney”… “Dear Dr. Mooney… I was referred to you for a question about my students.” “Dear Dr. Mooney… I have three new students in my classroom that don’t speak...
Culturally and linguistically diverse classrooms can be challenging to navigate, but they also provide environments for rich learning. Implement these ideas to provide a warm welcome for the English learners in your class this year.
There are many reasons why English Learners might remain silent during class discussions. Teachers can consider these four ideas as they work to welcome all students to speak up!
When a new student who speaks little English joins your classroom, it can create stress for everyone. However, the opportunity can be exciting and enriching when the teacher leverages the right tools and resources.
Recognizing the difference between playground language and academic language helps teachers know that English Learners are not lazy!
Dear Dr. Mooney, I don’t think I need to worry about teaching English Learners. I only speak English, and a teacher needs to be able to speak his or her students’ native languages in order to teach them well, right? Won’t there be b...
Current Discussions
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Infographic
Thanks for the Phonology infographic! Very helpful info for me and my district!
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Artist’s/Writer’s Workshop
The Universal Language of Pictures: A Critical Tool for Advancing Student Writing by Beth Olshansky provides a strong rationale for leading students to begin their writing projects with artwork. You can read my article about a few of her ideas, but w...
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Enjoyed learning about this alternative to frontloading vocabulary. I think there are many teachers out there who teach using a discovery method like you shared in the magnetism lesson example, but they don’t realize the importance of connectin...
