Various terms are used to refer to students who are not proficient in English, such as English Language Learner (ELLs), English learner, limited English proficient (LEP), non-native English speaker, bilingual students, heritage language, emergent bilingual, and language-minority students.
Issues in the Classroom
There are various issues within a classroom that contains a considerable number of ESL students (English as a Second Language), causing a strong need for additional support, programs, and services. Oftentimes, the issues arrive because of differences amongst the students, teachers, and other peers within the school who are culturally and linguistically diverse. ESL students are often expected to do the same work as all the other students, which causes frustration, low self-esteem, anxiety, and eventually leads to behavioral problems.
Teachers must realize that not every student learns the same and that not all students have received the appropriate schooling to perform at the same level as their counterparts. If teachers become culturally aware and actually get to know their students and the world they come from it becomes easier for the teacher to develop a relationship with the student, gain the student’s respect, and ultimately spend more time on the instructional framework opposed to constantly correcting students' behavior.
Assessment
Some teachers may come across being biased in assessments without even recognizing it. It is vital to have alternative methods of assessing ESL students.
Culture
Many teachers overlook culture and try to jump right into English and content knowledge without knowing their students' backgrounds; teachers need to be open to learning new cultures and having their students embrace all cultures in the classroom. By making efforts to learn about each other’s values and beliefs, the teacher and student would not only maximize the effectiveness of ESL but make it a successful learning experience for all involved. A student who is shy or reluctant to answer questions may be more outspoken when talking about their own values that tie in with their home life.
Teacher Attitude
Some teachers may have a negative, unwelcoming attitude. Research shows that teachers negative attitudes may stem from increased workload due to creating multiple alternative lesson plans and assessments. Their anxiety can roll over into the classroom and have a negative impact on ESL students’ (and other students') performances.
Supportive Strategies
In order to have an environment that is beneficial for the teacher and the student culture, literature, and other disciplines should be integrated systematically into the instruction.
Incorporating Technology
The internet makes it possible for students to view videos of activities, events and places around the world. Viewing these activities can help English language learners to develop an understanding of new concepts while at the same time building topic-related schema (background knowledge).
Experiential Learning
Teacher can provide opportunities for English language learners to acquire vocabulary and build knowledge through hands-on learning.
Connecting Learning to Prior Knowledge
In order to make learning more meaningful, connect a new topic to an experience or event from the English language learner's background ("scaffolding"). This can support the English language learner in making connections between vocabulary in their first language and English.