Skip to main content

How To Provide Technological Support to English Language Learners in Your Classroom

English Language Learners (ELLs) are students who do not have English as their first or native language. In a classroom setting, they can often pose a unique set of challenges to teachers. One of the reasons behind this is that they do not belong to a single proficiency level; they have a diverse range of very unique language acquisition and educational needs. There are, however, several apps and tools available today, including a talking pen, that are designed to make it easier for them to get a better grasp of the English language and thus improve their confidence in the process. As a teacher, here are some ways in which you can use these resources for the ELLs in your classroom:

1. Introduce them to Mantra Lingua’s PENpal

Mantra Lingua’s PENpal is a device that is designed to play back audio when it touches audio-enabled bilingual books, charts, and other learning resources. This portable, durable, and easy-to-use device allows for a multisensory experience that can be helpful for ELLs aged 3 and up. It can also be used to record the user’s voice, which then gets saved inside its expandable 8 GB memory.

2. Use ELL-friendly features in existing learning tools

Instructional content platforms like Newsela have built-in features that are designed to support instructions for different learners, including ELLs. Some, like Khan Academy, offer translated versions of their curriculum. You can easily find more such ed-tech apps that offer support for English learning as well as other subject areas to ELLs.

3. Introduce them to basic online resources

There are several online resources like Wikipedia and Microsoft OneNote that come with their ELL-friendly features and versions. For instance, Wikipedia has an adapted version for ELLs and younger students who might not be as proficient in English. It is called Simple English Wikipedia. You can also encourage your students to use translation tools like Google Translate which act as an effective learning medium for bilingual students.

Using meaningful technologies and digital tools can help you meet your classroom’s ELL’s individual learning proficiencies, while also allowing you to enhance their language development and learning.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Discover the Joy of Illustrated Arabic Picture Dictionaries

Learning a new language can be an adventure, especially when the journey is filled with colorful and interactive tools. For young learners exploring the world of Arabic and English, illustrated picture dictionaries, such as an Arabic children's book , offer a magical gateway to discovering new words. These vibrant resources transform the learning process into an engaging experience, making language acquisition fun and effective. The magic happens when children connect pictures with words. Seeing a bright illustration of an apple with its name written in Arabic and English helps cement the word in their memory. The visual connection makes it easier to understand and remember the meaning, turning the abstract into something concrete and memorable. It's essential to understand what the picture dictionary offers before selecting it for your cherished ones:  A Fun Way to Build Vocabulary Building vocabulary isn't just about memorizing words; it's about understanding and usi...

Language Bridges: Building Connections Through Bilingual Stories

As global societies become closer, embracing diversity and fostering cross-cultural understanding have become more important than ever. Bilingual children's books play a pivotal role in this dynamic, offering young readers a window into multiple cultures and languages through a single narrative. These stories establish connections between diverse worlds, making them an essential tool for learners of all ages. The Power of Dual Language Narratives Bilingual stories are uniquely positioned to link linguistic divides. By presenting the same story in two languages, these books allow children and adults alike to draw parallels between their native language and a new one, facilitating easier and more intuitive learning. This storytelling approach goes beyond enhancing language abilities; it promotes cognitive adaptability, stimulating the mind to transition between diverse linguistic frameworks. This, in turn, can foster improved problem-solving capabilities and creativity. Bilingual ch...

The Role of Storytelling in Language Development

Storytelling has always been a cherished tradition across cultures as a delightful means of sharing experiences, values, and knowledge. Storytelling plays a significant role in language development, particularly for young learners.  This captivating art form fosters language skills, enhances comprehension, and nurtures emotional intelligence, making it a vital tool in educational and home environments. Reading bilingual books can be helpful in this process.  Enhancing Vocabulary Through Narratives One of the most enchanting aspects of storytelling is its ability to introduce new vocabulary in context. When children listen to or engage with stories, they encounter words and phrases that they may not use in everyday conversation. This exposure is crucial for language acquisition.  For instance, when a child hears a tale about a brave hero or an adventurous journey, they absorb descriptive words and expressive language that enrich their vocabulary. Bilingual books provide a...