A teacher’s work is never done. After spending the entire day in the classroom, you have to research topics and activities to bring into the classroom, plus correct assignments. We’re not going to sugarcoat it. Being a teacher is hard, especially if you lack the right resources. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 5 free resources for teachers. Hopefully, … Read More
Oral Language: Essential for English Learners
When it comes to reaching fluency in a language, English Learners (ELs) must master both written and spoken language skills. Take a look at 4 essential components of oral language that need are essential for English Learners to master. Phonemic Awareness The English language consists of around 41 phonemes, which are the smallest units that make up spoken language. Phonemes … Read More
3 Strategies for Teaching Struggling ESL Readers
English as a second language (ESL) students come to the classroom with varying levels and complexity of struggles and knowledge. Some ESL students lack background knowledge, while others may have difficulties connecting their native language with the new language they are learning. Every ESL student is unique with varying levels or oral, listening, and text skills. Additionally, some students have … Read More
Publishing for Culture, Language, and Family Engagement
In today’s U.S. publishing world, there are very few bilingual children’s books for families whose parents’ first language is Spanish and whose children are learning English in school. These families rarely see themselves and their stories in the children’s books used and distributed at their schools, stocked in their local libraries or sold in bookstores. Based on research and personal … Read More
Bilingual School Readiness Books – A Fun Way to Learn Colors, Letters, and Numbers
Infants and young children learn language skills through interactions with their parents and family members, as language is a form of communication to share feelings, thoughts, and ideas. Literacy is also a skill that is learned through interaction with parents, family members, and educators. It is essential for young children to be cognizant of symbols and text, for them to … Read More
Multicultural Literature and Library Programs
Multicultural literature is oftentimes unheard of in libraries across America. Considering that America is a multicultural nation, and that more and more immigrants and English Learners (EL) are coming to America, that is unacceptable. Experiential, ideological, cultural, and social aspects in multicultural literature typically aren’t found in the basic, status quo literature in our country’s libraries and schools. Let’s explore … Read More
Tips for Reading Aloud with Infants & Toddlers
Reading is an integral part of our lives, so it’s important to start reading to children from the day that they’re born. Infants and toddlers listen and learn everything they hear. So, it’s important to read aloud to them. Additionally, when children begin speaking, they’ll start repeating the terms and phrases they’re hearing. In turn, there vocabulary will increase. Take … Read More
Culturally Meaningful Children’s Books for Hispanic Families
Reading is crucial for all kids in order to improve their reading comprehension, literacy, and language skills. Research demonstrates that kids are more engaged when they read books that they can relate to, especially if the books connect to their heritage or cultural background. It is important to note that not all books about Spanish-speaking individuals are relevant to all … Read More
Laws and Policies for English Learners
Laws and policies play a huge role in the education system at the federal, state, and local levels. These laws come straight from the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice. Further, there are some laws that are specific to English Learners. Take a look at some of these laws and how they affect English Learners. Services for the Educationally Disadvantaged … Read More
5 Tips for Teaching Biliteracy to Adults
Adult English Language Learners (ELLs), experience the same stresses, difficulties, and anxieties that young ELLs do, but at times can have tougher experiences as they have more concrete knowledge in their native or first language. Additionally, adult ELLs have greater responsibilities and issues dealing with work, family, and life occupying their minds. Oftentimes it is thought that adult ELLs need … Read More