The English language controls communication, desires, and dreams of those who speak it. It is the means by which people around the world participate in their families, and in their communities. Teachers use English to impart knowledge; knowledge provides social, political and economic power. Understanding Students learning English is critical. There is controversy surrounding the subject. Too often English language learners are called the “minority” when this is not the case. Students and Teachers will face challenges. My personal opinion; and from first-hand experience, it is crucial for a teacher to have a passion for ELD and promote diversity. This growing population deserves a compassionate, fair, knowledgeable, and successful.
The Article: Strategies for teaching English Language Learners, by Andrea J. Spillett identifies four skill areas. They are function, form, fluency and vocabulary. I would place vocabulary as number one priority, because a language cannot be understood unless you know what the spoken words mean. Function is critical to understanding the purpose of the communication. I would place form and fluency as third and fourth in rank of importance. Most people can understand what a person is trying to convey without accurate form of sentences. Fluency is not necessary for the purpose of communicate, although it does play a larger role in some environments.
Response to peer blogs will be added. As of 3/16 there, is not an entry for chapter 1.
Spillett, A. Strategies for teaching English language learners. Scholastic, 1.
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