"The authors embrace the constructivist paradigm as a natural teaching and learning response to the specific needs of ELLs. A unique and remarkable contribution to the theoretical and research-based literature." -Karen C. Evans, Principal David Walker Elementary School, Evanston, IL "Reyes and Vallone invite readers on an exciting journey inside classrooms where knowledgeable, caring, advocacy-oriented teachers effectively engage English Language Learners through culturally and linguistically responsive pedagogy." -Carlos J. Ovando, Professor Arizona State University Combine constructivist methods and culturally responsive instruction to improve educational equity. As the population of English Language Learners (ELLs) grows, educators need new strategies to effectively promote second language acquisition and literacy development in all content areas. By linking constructivist pedagogies to ELL instruction, Constructivist Strategies for Teaching English Language Learners provides a culturally responsive approach that builds on students' experiences and strengths. Sharon Adelman Reyes and Trina Lynn Vallone supply in-depth classroom examples and grade-level connections to help readers apply constructivist methods in teaching ELLs. Designed for inclusive classrooms with diverse student backgrounds and abilities, this hands-on guide examines: Perspectives on second language acquisition and learning Program models for ELLs Instructional practices informed by critical pedagogy Examples of constructivist classroom programs Mainstream and bilingual teachers, ESL specialists, principals, and teacher leaders will find the conceptual foundation and practical methods needed to promote academic success for ELLs.
Linking constructivism with instruction of English Language Learners, this book provides mainstream, bilingual, and ESL teachers with a hands-on guide to using constructivist teaching methods with students whose first language is not English. Based on sound theory and best instructional practices, Constructivist Strategies for Teaching English Language Learners provides approaches and strategies that can help to provide educational equity for students who are English Language Learners. This text discusses: Perspectives on second language acquisition and learning Program models for second language learners Instruction Informed by critical pedagogy Examples of constructivist classroom programs
"The authors deliver a passionate, practical, and loving approach to teaching children whose first language is other than English. This is a source of both inspiration and practical strategies for those educating our newest emergent bilingual citizens." -Sonia Nieto, Professor Emerita, Language, Culture, and Teaching University of Massachusetts, Amherst "Finally, a comprehensive and beautifully written guide to teaching bilingually. Full of creative strategies, practical mentoring, and well-chosen vignettes, this book is destined to become the standard text in bilingual methods courses." -James Crawford, President Institute for Language and Education Policy "A truly intellectual text for all teachers of bilingual learners." -Maria E. Torres-Guzman, Professor of Bilingual/Bicultural Education Teachers College, Columbia University A hands-on guide to meeting the unique challenges of educating English language learners! Bilingual education programs give students who are learning languages and content the opportunity to progress academically while gaining proficiency in English as well as their first language. Grounded in current research, this hands-on guide helps educators navigate the linguistic, academic, and cultural considerations of bilingual classrooms. Focusing on teachers' day-to-day experiences, the authors present classroom-ready strategies such as Guidance on balancing instruction in two languages, including age-specific needs and social and academic language development Tools for content-area teaching across the curriculum, including vocabulary development Recommendations on appropriate assessments Vignettes from schools and teachers illustrating solutions to challenges Appropriate for a wide range of K-12 bilingual programs, Teaching in Two Languages is a comprehensive guide to language and content-area instruction for educators in any bilingual program or setting.
