Planning for ELLs

Which one does NOT define academic language?

• Used at all grade levels, although its frequency increases as students get older.

• The language of school and it is used in textbooks, essays, assignments, class presentations, and assessments.

• The language used when having casual conversations with friends.

• “Sounding smart”

Answer explanation

Academic language is the language of school and it is used in textbooks, essays, assignments, class presentations, and assessments. Academic language is used at all grade levels, although its frequency increases as students get older.

Aka. “Sounding smart”

________ ___________ are often conducted upon a student’s first arrival at school, but may be conducted at any point if there is an indication that the student might need ELL services in order to successfully access the provincially prescribed curriculum. In addition to language proficiency, it is often helpful at this point to gather additional information in order to better understand the student’s needs and assist in support planning.

Answer explanation

Initial assessment is crucial for English Language Learners (ELLs) as it helps educators understand each student's language proficiency, prior knowledge, and learning needs. This enables the creation of tailored instructional strategies and resources that support effective language acquisition and academic progress.

Initial and ongoing assessment of language and literacy proficiencies can include, but is not limited to, a combination of the following approaches:

• Oral interviews with the student (and with parents, as appropriate)

• Review of the student’s unedited written language samples

• Evaluation of the student’s reading and listening comprehension

• Review of observation reports or summaries related to language development and progres

Answer explanation

These are all great approaches to assess students' literacy and language proficiency in addition to standardized test of language proficiency.

Based on the student’s initial language assessment or ongoing language assessment throughout the previous year, an Annual Instructional Plan (AIP) should be developed before which date for the current school year?

• August 30

• September 1

• September 30

• December 31

Answer explanation

Developing an annual instructional plan before September 30 is essential because it allows schools and educators to have a clear roadmap for the entire academic year. This early planning ensures that instructional goals, curriculum, resources, and assessments are aligned and organized well in advance. It provides teachers with a structured framework to deliver effective and cohesive lessons, ensures that necessary materials are prepared, and allows for timely adjustments based on student needs, ensuring a smooth and productive learning experience throughout the year.

AIP needs to include information for the current school year on the ELL student’s:

• Language assessment and determined language proficiency

• Content proficiency

• • Linguistic and/or literacy goals that can reasonably be met in the current school year

• Support plan for language development

Answer explanation

Content proficiency is determined by the classroom teacher and usually gets reflected on term and final report cards.

ELL students who have been placed in a mainstream learning environment typically face challenges. They are simultaneously working to develop:

• a grasp of the knowledge, skills, and attitudes specific to various subjects

• a better command of the English language

• an ability to interact with others and function within the social environment of the school.

• an understanding of the new culture and routines

Answer explanation

ELL students can experience these challenges on top of a language barrier.

What are some digital tools teachers can use to support ELLs?

• Google Translate

• Simple English Wikipedia

• Duolingo

• Ellevation

Answer explanation

These are some of the digital tools teachers can use inside and outside the classroom to support ELLs develop language proficiency.

What are some ways to assess ELLs in a classroom that reflect ELLs' true content knowledge or abilities?

• Standardized tests

• Oral presentations or performances

• Non-verbal assessments

• Portfolios

Answer explanation

Standardized tests in English do not usually reflect ELLs' true content knowledge or abilities. Yet informal assessments can provide a more well-rounded picture of their skills, abilities, and ongoing progress.

What are the three principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL)?

• Provide Multiple Means of Representation

• Provide Multiple Means of Engagement

• Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression

• Provide Multiple Means of Language Skills

Answer explanation

Three Principles of UDL are:

• - Provide Multiple Means of Representation

The first principle of UDL reminds educators to provide multiple means of representation to build knowledge and comprehension in all learners. 

• - Provide Multiple Means of Action and Expression

Students need numerous methods to express their understanding as they develop into writers and speakers.

• - Provide Multiple Means of Engagement

Engagement is at the core of all learning experiences. If we want students to learn, we have to foster both attention and commitment by providing students with authentic, meaningful experiences in learning. All students need access to options that help them connect their own cultural backgrounds to new learning activities, as well as access to their peers to foster collaboration and community.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is aimed towards which learners?

• Students with special needs

• ELLs

• Students with diverse learning styles

• Everyone!

Answer explanation

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is aimed towards all learners, regardless of their individual differences. It's a framework that seeks to make education inclusive and accessible to everyone, including students with special needs, English language learners (ELLs), and students with diverse learning styles and preferences. UDL is not targeted towards a specific group; rather, it's about creating instructional materials, methods, and environments that can be effectively used by the widest range of learners possible.