Module 4 - Session 2
LEVERAGING ELLs’ HOME LANGUAGES
Meeting the Needs of English Language Learners Across Learning Environments
GETTING STARTED
OVERVIEW
Welcome to TALE Academy Module 4: Meeting the Needs of English Language Learners Across Learning Environments!
Goal – The goal of this module is to help teachers expand their capacity for effectively teaching English language learners (ELLs) across learning environments.
Module Content – This module consists of 8 sessions on meeting the needs of English language learners across learning environments. Each session contains a variety of content and learning activities.
Session Content – You are beginning Module 4 – Session 2: Leveraging ELLs’ Home Languages.
MODULE WORKBOOK
If you have not yet downloaded your personal copy of the TALE Academy Workbook for this module, do so now. See directions below. There is only one workbook for each module which contains activities for all sessions within that module.
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Step 1: Create your personal copy of the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook.
Throughout this session, you will complete the session activities and take notes in the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook. You will have many opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills you learn using your digital workbook. When you click on the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook link, you will be prompted to make a copy of the workbook. Once you do so, your notes and your work within your workbook will be visible only to you. Please note that the workbook is fillable using Google Slides. We do not recommend printing a copy due to the length of the workbook.
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Step 2: Get familiar with the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook.
Now that you have your personal copy of the workbook, review pages 1-7 to learn about the workbook’s contents and tips for using the workbook. Don’t forget to add your name to page 1 to personalize your workbook!
Step 3: Review “Key Terms” for Session 2 in the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook.
Your last step is to review the key terms for Session 2. For every TALE Academy session, the key terms are listed at the start of each new session in the workbook. You can return to the key terms page(s) of your workbook throughout this session to add your notes.
GUIDING QUESTIONS & LEARNING OBJECTIVES
GUIDING QUESTIONS
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How can I leverage the home languages of my students during instruction?
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this session, you will be able to do the following:
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Understand the importance of home languages in meaningful instruction of ELLs.
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Explore strategies that leverage ELLs’ home languages during instruction across learning environments.
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Apply the features of Google Translate in a current lesson or unit.
ENGAGE: ACTIVATE PRIOR KNOWLEDGE
LEARN FROM OTHERS:
VOICES FROM THE FIELD
The following video highlights the reflections of New York State educators on leveraging ELLs’ home languages.
WORKBOOK
ACTIVITY
To activate your prior knowledge on the topic, please complete the following steps:
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In your copy of the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook, complete Activity 4.2.1 – Mindset Shift.
If you have not already created your personal copy of the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook, you can make a copy by clicking here.
EXPLORE: TOPIC OVERVIEW
READ, WATCH, LISTEN
Select from the learning modalities below to explore an overview of the topic for this session. You may read a magazine-style article, watch a video, or listen to a conversational podcast.
You need to select only one option: read, watch, or listen.
As you read, watch, or listen, consider pausing and reviewing the key terms for this session in your workbook. You can add your own notes, ideas for application, or definitions of the terms in your own words.
READ
Dive into our Module 4 – Session 2 READ, a magazine-style overview of the session topic with infographics and links to resources.
WATCH
Tune into our Module 4 – Session 2 WATCH, a narrated, animated video that provides an overview of the session topic.
LISTEN
Settle in for our Module 4 – Session 2 LISTEN, a conversational, podcast-style discussion among educators about the session topic.
EXPLORE: CHOICE BOARD
Select one option from the choices offered below to learn more.
You need to select only one of the choices, but you are welcome to explore all the resources!
Best Google Tools for English Language Learners
Synopsis: This article provides several options for teachers and students to use when they need translation assistance. Many of these tools are Google-based, which means they can be used on a mobile device, as well as a laptop or desktop computer. The author includes helpful tips for using these digital tools.
Format: Article
Time: 8 minutes
Cross Language Connections in the Classroom
Synopsis: This video highlights multilingual students’ use of both their home language and English to demonstrate their learning. The teachers featured in this video model how to support English language learners through the strategy of cross-language connections – using two different languages to help students comprehend the concepts.
Format: Video
Time: 13 minutes
Synopsis: This podcast highlights the importance of framing the role of language use in class. A student’s home language should be seen as an asset and leveraged as a means to acquire literacy in a second language. Podcast guest Penny Ur brings up several strategies to help students acquire comprehension in a second language with the support of their home language.
Format: Podcast
Time: 15 minutes
ESTABLISH: REFLECTION FOR ACTION
WORKBOOK ACTIVITY
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Return to your copy of the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook and complete Activity 4.2.2 – Get Started with Google Translate.
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If you have not already made your personal copy of the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook, you can make a copy by clicking here.
EXTEND: DEEPER LEARNING
Extend your learning by engaging in a longer workbook activity and/or accessing additional resources.
This section is designed to help you begin a journey into deeper learning on the topic area.
WORKBOOK ACTIVITY
Return to your copy of the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook and complete Activity 4.2.3 – Revise a Current Lesson. If you have not already made your personal copy of the Module 4 TALE Academy Workbook, you can do so by clicking here.
Time: 20 minutes
ADDITIONAL
RESOURCES
Developing Empathy for Your English Language Learners
Topic: Suggestions on how to better support immigrant and ELL learners, including ways to develop empathy for the struggles and challenges that these students and their families face
Format: Blog
Time: 8 minutes
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The Home Language: An English Language Learner’s Most Valuable Resource
Topic: Research findings that suggest that the home language of students is an academic asset
Format: Blog and Video
Time: 11 minutes
Supporting Young English Learners at Home
Topic: Activity sheets and videos in multiple languages to share with families and caregivers
Format: Video(s), Activity Sheets
Time: Varies by number of videos viewed