Module 8 Discussion: Early Literacy and My ELLs

As a first grade teacher, I have many literacy strategies that work well with my ELL students.  One simple strategy is having common responses posted in the room.  "May I go to the restroom?", "May I share with Mary?".  That helps my ELLs navigate simple things in the classroom.  

Picture Walks are amazing.  Even the article favored DRTA over KWL, I find KWL  a very easy way to differentiate.  I also employ the LEA.  It is very helpful because it employs speaking, listening, reading and writing.  I use Big Books with all of my students and find the ELL students keep engaged.  Dramatic play is another way to engage ELL students.  Another helpful strategy is to find out the interests of the ELL students (actually all students) and find texts and activities that speak to those interests.