This week's learning: English Language Learners

Did you know that English language learners must master two distinct forms of English language? In order to participate in learning taking place in their classrooms, English language learners must become proficient in everyday English as well as academic English. Everyday English refers to vocabulary and language skills needed to integrate into their new school environments and to effectively communicate with their teachers and peers, as well as with English speakers outside of school. ELLs typically master everyday English within a year or two. Academic English refers to vocabulary and language skills needed to express and explore concepts at the core of the curriculum. Academic English is often more difficult to develop and typically takes five or more years to master.

It is important to note that students do not develop and master these two forms of English separately, but instead they are learning everyday English and academic English at the same time. This can be quite complex for ELLs to navigate, increasingly so depending on their age. Teachers need to be aware of the stage of language development their ELLs are entering the classroom. For example, young ELLs will learn the sound system of a new language effectively but may take five or more years to catch up to their peers in vocabulary and grammar, while older ELLs have an advantage because they are already literate in their first language and therefore may acquire vocabulary and grammar more efficiently. ELLs will also enter the classroom with varying academic experience - some ELLs may come with little to no schooling or have very little literacy skills in any language. Ultimately, teachers and the wider school community (ie. administrators, support staff, other teachers and leaders) can support all ELLs, regardless of their stage of development, by acknowledging their previously developed language skills and by creating a welcoming and inclusive school environment that celebrates language and cultural diversity.

What do you do to support ELLs every day and academic English? How do you ensure a welcoming and inclusive school environment that gives ELLs a space to thrive?

(information gathered and summarized from the Ontario Ministry of Education document "Supporting English Language Learners: A practical guide for Ontario Educators Grades 1-8")