Teaching English Language Learners Across the Content Areas

by Judie Haynes, Debbie Zacarian

English language learners (ELLs) often face the difficult challenge of learning both a new language and new subject matter at the same time. In Teaching English Language Learners Across the Content Areas, Judie Haynes and Debbie Zacarian offer strategies, tools, and tips that teachers can use to help ELLs at all levels flourish in mainstream classrooms. This book will show teachers how to

* Determine their ELLs' stages of English language acquisition.

* Modify assignments and assessments in different content areas for ELLs at different stages of language development.

* Ensure that all ELLs participate fully in lesson activities alongside their English-fluent peers.

* Communicate effectively with parents and guardians of students from diverse cultures.

Real-life examples of lessons from elementary, middle, and high school that have been modified for ELLs in language arts, math, science, and social studies classes show how to effectively put the authors' recommendations into practice. A glossary of important ELL and ESL terms is included as well, for those who are new to teaching ELLs. Whether novice or veteran, all teachers of ELLs will benefit from this wonderfully practical guide to ensuring that ELLs learn English by learning content--and learn content while learning English.

Genres: Education

183 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2010

Reviews

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I disagree with some of their ideas about writing instruction. Maybe they were focusing on newcomer/beginner and I work with intermediate/advanced, but it felt like they were watering down curricula for them (which, throughout the text, they insist on the importance of not doing this). They seemed against the idea of allowing students to write essays, long pieces of writing, etc.

ELLs can write essays. ELLs can do literary analysis. Does it take longer? Absolutely. But do not get rid of these crucial parts of critical thinking development because they "can't do it."

[Tina Shirey · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are new to working with English Language Learners, then this book would be a valuable resource in your room. It is easy to read and several valuable strategies and ideas are given in each chapter. Haynes and Zacarian have several years of experience with ELLs and have written many books and articles on the topic. If you are not new to working with ELLs, this book is still valuable. I found myself taking notes on each chapter. It's always good to refresh your thinking and teaching.
I think this book would be a great option for a book study during the summer or beginning of the year. Some chapters I found very valuable were Reading Comprehension Instruction, Writing Instruction, Homework and Assessment, and Communicating with Families. There were several pages of guidelines in the Homework and Assessment chapter that I am planning on sharing with staff. After reading, I plan on sharing ideas from each chapter monthly with my staff next year.

[Athornton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some typos in the book but easy to digest and helpful suggestions and examples.