Academic success in mainstream classes is the ultimate goal for English Language Learners (ELLs). The intent of this course is to guide the course participants through a process of exploring, shaping, and theorizing about the classroom practice of teaching ELLs in their K-12 classrooms. Participants will study the foundations of basic language development and acquisition which enables educators to develop appropriate instructional strategies to assess students' knowledge, identify objectives, and develop differentiated practices that address various levels of language proficiency; learn about and practice research-based pedagogical practices which inform a variety of approaches and activities that promote comprehension in the content areas; examine and understand the various dimensions of cultural identity, including one's own, and apply this knowledge to their thinking and behavior as teachers of linguistically diverse students. The participants will discuss articles of current best practices, observe students and teachers in the classroom setting, tutor ELLs and begin to develop their own ESL teaching practices, reflection, and integration of theory and classroom practice with focus on using technology to meet these goals. Prerequisites: Admittance to the Teacher Education Program. Corequisite: MCTE 333. (0.5 course).
- Teacher: Tiffany Springer