English Language Learners: Confidence & Communication When we hear the term ELL or English Language Learners, it can often be overwhelming. As educators, we are presented with various hurtles all the time. But what happens if a student doesn’t speak your native language? Or if they are new to the country and can’t communicate with anyone at school?
Learning a language requires perseverance, and discomfort. English language learners are incredibly brave. This is especially true for English language learners (ELLs) studying in the United States, where peers who are native speakers of English may not have the experience of learning a language outside of their home country. The process of language acquisition can last for years, even a lifetime. Unfortunately, embarrassment is an all too familiar feeling for new students in this process. As educators, it’s our responsibility to help reduce this to encourage language growth and confidence.
Language learning can be a struggle for everyone. It comes with an array of challenges and feelings. Consider these methods to create a welcoming learning environment free of criticism and full of encouragement and positive reinforcement.
Showing Up
Some students, especially older teenagers in high school, may have difficulty maintaining good attendance. So anytime they come to school, show them how proud you are to see them and how you recognize that they are working hard at school or, in some cases, making an effort to attend classes even when they work at jobs outside of school in the evenings and on weekends.
Effort is Everything
Remind students of their progress since first arriving in the United States or your school or classroom. Use specific examples of their growth that may encourage them, such as a sample of their writing from previous months or years.
Engagement is Key
Make small talk with ELLs as they are comfortable. Ask them about their interests, home country, and culture. Encourage classmates to talk with ELLs. Create chances for one-on-one and small-group communication. Ensure all classmates have a translator on their phone. ELLs should share words in their native language with native English speakers during informal chats to build confidence and encourage their assets.
Become the Student
If you know a student’s native language, use it to help them learn English. Encourage classmates to learn words in the ELL’s home language. Ask them to teach you their language. Greet and say goodbye in their language to show you are learning, too. Enjoy the process and model this for others.
Praise Progress
Compliment their progress and efforts often.
Focus on Comprehension
Identifying pronunciation mistakes can help some language learners but may discourage others and reduce their confidence. Focus on comprehension first, then work on pronunciation.
Remember that it is an enriching experience and opportunity to give the gift of another language to a non-native speaker. Engage and enjoy the process with them!s a village to raise a child, then let’s give the child a village or resources to support them.
Written By: Meredith Biesinger
Professional Writer/ Education Specialist
Meredith Biesinger is a licensed dyslexia therapist in Mississippi, in addition to being an experienced classroom teacher and K-12 administrator. Meredith also works as a consultant, where she bridges the bridge the gap between K-12 school districts and ed-tech organizations. With a passion for literacy, she is also a professional writer and syndicated author. With a M.Ed in Educational Leadership and a B.S. in English Education and Creative Writing, she has had rich and diverse opportunities to teach students and education professionals in different parts of the country as well as overseas.
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