Teaching English Language Learners: Culture, Theory, and Methods

The intent of this program is to introduce undergraduate students to the foundational theories, research and strategies specific to teaching English language learners (ELs-English learners or MLs-multilingual learners) in adult and K-12 classroom settings. This program focuses on culture, language acquisition theory, literacy, curriculum development and assessment in support of students seeking careers working alongside ELs/MLs. Students will explore the history, program models and practices of ELL education. In addition, they will be introduced to the central theories presented in language acquisition research. Students will also consider how EL/ML culture, heritage language maintenance and lived experiences influence and support language learning.

In addition, our program will focus on the study of language as a system with an emphasis on WIDA (World- Class Instructional Design and Assessment) English standards or TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Language) standards for adult ELs. Among the topics addressed will be EL/ML methods for teaching and developing conversational and academic language (BICS and CALP) and instruction in the four language domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing across pre-emergent, beginning, intermediate and advanced levels of language proficiency. Students will learn the principles of backward design lesson and unit planning and present lesson demonstrations with an emphasis on providing ELLs comprehensible input and output in various content areas.

Students will also explore strategies and targets specific to meeting the needs of ELs in community-based organizations and schools. They will meet EL/ML community and school educators and take part in tutoring. Finally, students will be introduced to qualitative research methods and complete their own case study interview projects of EL/MLs or ELL educators.