Strategies for supporting multilingual learners in the classroom
As schools welcome more and more multilingual learner students, it’s important for teachers to support these students so they feel included and ready to learn. This shows how important it is to create a classroom where everyone has a chance to succeed.
With helpful strategies, teachers can make sure all multi language learners feel welcome and ready to learn. Read on to discover tips to be an effective teacher.
Understanding multilingual learners
Multilingual learners come from many different backgrounds. Some might know a little bit of English, and others might be learning English for the first time. When teachers understand where students come from, they can help them feel more comfortable and make learning easier for everyone.
Making the classroom friendly
It’s important to make the classroom a welcoming place for everyone. Teachers can make students feel good by showing respect for all languages and cultures.
For example, they can put up signs in different languages or use books that show different cultures. When students see their language and culture respected, they feel like they belong and are more excited to learn.
Using pictures to help with learning
Pictures and drawings can help students who are learning English. When teachers use pictures, it’s easier for students to understand what they’re learning, even if they don’t know all the English words yet.
For example, if the class is learning about plants, the teacher can use a picture of a plant to show each part. This makes learning more clear and fun.
Working with families
Working with families is also very helpful. When teachers send home information in students’ home languages, it helps families understand what their children are learning.
Families feel happy when their language and culture are respected. Also, it helps students feel good about school when their families are involved.
Teaching in different ways
Not everyone learns in the same way. Some students learn best by reading, while others learn by doing activities. One of the most effective ways to support multilingual learners is through practical applications of comprehensible input.
Teachers can help by using different ways to teach, like hands-on activities, group work, and games. This way, all students have a chance to learn in the way that works best for them.
Learning English by working in groups
When students work in small groups, they can practice English with their friends. This helps them feel more comfortable using new words. Working in groups helps students make friends, learn new words, and feel more confident speaking English in a safe space.
Showing what students know in different ways
Tests aren’t the only way to see what students know. Teachers can let students show what they’ve learned by making posters, doing projects, or giving short talks.
This helps students show their knowledge in a way that feels easier for them. Giving students helpful feedback also makes them feel proud and excited to keep learning.
Helping teachers learn new skills
To best help students, teachers need special training, too. When teachers learn more about how to support students who speak other languages, they can make sure everyone feels included and ready to learn.
Creating a classroom for everyone
When teachers use these ideas, they can create a classroom where multilingual learner students feel happy and ready to learn. Teachers who use things like pictures, group work, and different ways to teach help make school a place where everyone can succeed and have fun learning together.
