Lesson 4.1: Understanding English Language Learners & Stages of English Language Learning

Strategies for Supporting English Language Learners

• Visual Aids: Use pictures, charts, and gestures to support understanding.
• Simplified Language: Use clear, simple language and avoid idioms.
• Peer Support: Encourage peer learning and collaboration.

You’ll meet students learning English alongside other subjects in many classrooms. These students are often called English Language Learners (ELLs) or Multilingual Learners (MLs).

Important Things to Know

• Students may be at different stages of learning English.
• They might understand more than they can say.
• Learning a new language takes time and patience.
• Many English language learners are fluent in one or more other languages.

English language learners are working extra hard in school. They are learning all the regular subjects plus a new language.

Stages of English Language Learning

Understanding the stages of language learning can help you support your students better.

Here are the basic stages:

1. Silent or Receptive: Students listen and observe but speak very little.
2. Early Production: Students use short phrases and simple sentences.
3. Speech Emergence: Students can speak in simple sentences and ask questions.
4. Intermediate Fluency: Students can converse and express more complex ideas.
5. Advanced Fluency: Students can use English almost like a native speaker.

Every student moves through these stages at their own pace. Be patient and encouraging.