Module 6 Discussion: Language and Learning

A strategy for learning vocabulary that I think works well with ELLs and, quite frankly, all students when they are learning a new word, is acting out the words or phrases.  This gets students physically involved, which is great especially for the younger students, and it might be more memorable if they remember the "act" that went with the word.  I think it is also to pair the words with a visual and a context in which the word would be used.  In other words, using multiple strategies for learning the words will tap into the learning styles of all students.  In addition, it is more enjoyable to learn words this way than just learning/memorizing definitions.  Students don't typically hold onto that information if they just rely on memorization for words, and it would be especially difficult if it is their second language.  I would and have used the physical strategy with all students because the ELLs or struggling students can look to others as they model an action that goes along with each word.  Having students illustrate what they know about each word also has more meaning than just learning definitions.  It allows students to make personal connections to each word.