As the education landscape evolves, so does our approach to teaching multilingual learners.
Today, we’ll explore effective instructional practices that are key for supporting multilingual learners, drawing from my experience as the Vice President of Programs at Ensemble Learning.
I’m Katherine Hamilton, and I have nearly 15 years of experience in the K-12 education space. I specialize in effective teaching and learning, instructional leadership, and overarching strategy to ensure equity for all student groups.
In this piece, I’ll share with you:
- How to integrate cultural backgrounds into the curriculum
- Balancing language development and content mastery
- Adapting assessments for multilingual learners
- And much more!
Contents
- 1 Understanding Multilingual Learners
- 2 Integrating Cultural Backgrounds into the Curriculum
- 3 Balancing Language Development and Content Mastery
- 4 Adapting Assessments for Multilingual Learners
- 5 Fostering Collaborative Learning Environments
- 6 Professional Development for Teaching Multilingual Learners
- 7 Advice for Educators Working with Multilingual Learners
- 8 Ready to start supporting multilingual learners?
Understanding Multilingual Learners
When we talk about multilingual learners, we’re recognizing the rich linguistic diversity in our classrooms.
At Ensemble Learning, we prefer the term “multilingual learner” because it acknowledges the asset of speaking multiple languages.
While some regions use terms like “emergent bilingual” or “English learner,” it’s crucial to remember that many students speak more than two languages.
Integrating Cultural Backgrounds into the Curriculum
Effective instructional practices for multilingual learners involve creating curriculum that serves as both a window and a mirror.
Students should see themselves reflected in the content while also gaining exposure to new perspectives.
Simple adjustments, like using culturally relevant names in word problems or incorporating local cultural elements, can significantly enhance engagement and learning for multilingual students.
Balancing Language Development and Content Mastery
One of the most effective instructional practices for multilingual learners is setting both content and language objectives for each lesson.
Teachers should be conscious of the academic language required for students to fully engage with the content.
Implementing structured academic talk, complete with sentence starters and vocabulary support, can boost students’ confidence in both language use and content understanding.
Adapting Assessments for Multilingual Learners
When it comes to assessment, it’s crucial to separate language proficiency from content knowledge.
For instance, in a geometry class, you might assess a student’s grasp of surface area independently from their ability to explain it in academic English.
This approach allows for a more accurate reflection of multilingual learners’ skills and knowledge.
Fostering Collaborative Learning Environments
Creating an asset-based environment is one of the most effective instructional practices for multilingual learners.
In such a setting, linguistic and cultural differences are celebrated as strengths.
Teachers can model vulnerability by attempting to speak in another language, fostering a supportive community of learners.
Implementing structured student talk routines is key to encouraging peer interaction and support.
Professional Development for Teaching Multilingual Learners
When focusing on professional development, it’s essential to prioritize high-quality, Tier 1 instruction that benefits all students, including multilingual learners.
Effective instructional practices for multilingual learners, such as using anchor charts for content and academic language and providing structured speaking opportunities, should form the foundation of teacher training.
Advice for Educators Working with Multilingual Learners
For educators new to working with multilingual learners, remember that building strong relationships with your students is paramount.
Create a classroom culture where students feel valued, respected, and ready to learn. Teach and consistently reinforce learning routines.
Your classroom should be a welcoming space where students are eager to engage with the content.
Ready to start supporting multilingual learners?
As the population of multilingual learners continues to grow, reaching over 10% of the U.S. student population, the need for effective instructional practices for multilingual learners becomes increasingly crucial.
We should honor students’ linguistic abilities and encourage them to maintain their home languages while mastering academic English.
Remember, one of the most effective instructional practices for multilingual learners is simply getting them talking in your classroom.
Let them share, learn, and have their voices heard.
By implementing these strategies, we can create more inclusive, effective learning environments for all students.
If you are ready to take action to support multilingual learners, feel free to reach out.
