Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ell-lesson
As educators, our classrooms are increasingly diverse, with English Language Learners (ELLs) bringing unique strengths and needs. To truly foster an inclusive and effective learning environment, we must equip ourselves with the right strategies. This is where Coursera’s ‘Lesson Planning with the ELL in Mind’ course shines. I recently completed this invaluable program, and I can confidently recommend it to any teacher looking to enhance their practice for ELL students.
The course is meticulously structured, guiding participants through the essential components of effective lesson planning for ELLs. It begins by delving into the core theories of Second Language Acquisition (SLA), providing a solid foundation for understanding how students learn a new language. This initial module is crucial, as it empowers educators to assess their students’ language skills using established frameworks like BICS (Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills) and CALP (Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency). Understanding these distinctions is key to tailoring instruction appropriately.
Moving forward, the course expertly addresses the cognitive and learning skills necessary to support ELLs. It emphasizes fostering student autonomy and creating a positive learning environment by managing the ‘affective filter’ – that emotional barrier that can hinder language acquisition. The practical advice on strategically designing classroom environments and pre-planning cognitive and learning skills is directly applicable to daily teaching.
The heart of the course lies in its practical application to lesson planning. You’ll learn how to align language objectives with content learning outcomes and school standards, a vital step for ensuring academic rigor and language development go hand-in-hand. The course provides actionable strategies for modifying existing materials and developing supportive resources like graphic organizers and language frames, making complex content more accessible.
The syllabus is a testament to the course’s comprehensive nature, covering everything from initial assessment and theoretical underpinnings to material selection, lesson delivery, and assessment strategies. The inclusion of model lesson plans in Week 5 is particularly beneficial, offering concrete examples of how to implement the learned concepts. The final module focuses on synthesizing this knowledge and applying it to one’s own teaching context, culminating in a final assessment that solidifies learning.
In summary, ‘Lesson Planning with the ELL in Mind’ is a must-take for educators committed to supporting their English Language Learners. It’s practical, research-based, and delivered in an accessible online format. Investing in this course is an investment in the success of every student in your classroom.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ell-lesson