2E) Informal learning
Provide adequate time for informal learning and exploration, to help develop relationships within the classroom.
Strategy Overview: Self Portraits
This activity provides an opportunity for students to do their own exploration, reflection, and expression about themselves through a facilitated process of looking at themselves in a mirror, talking about what they see, and drawing a self-portrait. Young children are developing an awareness of who they are and what they look like and increasing awareness of human diversity.Read More
Video: A Felt Board Story
This video clip shows two Multilingual Learners practicing content vocabulary in both Spanish and English as they reenact a chant they have learned in class. The peer interaction provides an authentic space for them to support one another with language development in a fun, meaningful hands-on activity.Read More
Blog: Lowering the Affective Filter for English Language Learners Facilitates Successful Language Acquisition
This blog introduces the concept of affective filter and lists ways that teachers can establish a classroom environment to minimize stress and support the risk-taking associated with learning a new language at school.Read More
Video: A Study of DLLs’ Play in an English-Speaking Classroom
In this video, presenters emphasize how important it is for teachers to support Multilingual Learners in interacting meaningfully with their peers. When teachers serve as interpreters, provide words for children, and strategically pair them together, they will have more successful peer interactions and relationships.Read More
Website Article: Promote Peer Support and Interaction
This website article describes how teachers can intentionally structure social opportunities for Multilingual Learners (MLs) and explicitly teach children communication strategies. This article is one part of a multi-page resource about supporting MLs and ML children with disabilities.Read More
Website Article: Adapting Morning Meeting Greeting for English Learners
Morning meetings are a common part of the instructional day. This article offers strategies on how to make Multilingual Learners feel welcome and included, along with activity ideas that draw on students' linguistic diversity.Read More
Educator Toolkit: My Name, My Identity- Creating an Inclusive and Respectful School Community
This digital book supports the socio-emotional learning of students by introducing example lesson plans that center on Multilingual Learners' identity. The resource includes videos, book lists, lesson plans, and many extension activities and further resources to help teachers build a healthy, asset-based community in the classroom.Read More
Website Article: Six Strategies to Help ELLs Succeed in Peer Learning and Collaboration
This article offers numerous strategies and additional resources to help teachers integrate group learning in the classroom. Intentional grouping builds in peer support for Multilingual Learners who speak the same language, offers authentic purposes for oral language practice, and helps build relationships in the classroom.Read More
