ESL newcomers are students who do not speak English as their first language. As a newer teacher, I remember the first time I received a student who spoke little to no English. I don’t know about your teacher training program, but mine had given me very little in the way of concrete steps or resources to use in this scenario. If you are reading this, you are probably finding yourself in a similar situation.
I felt so bad that my new student was sometimes unable to participate with his peers. I did the best I could at the time – thankful for a language computer program my school had purchased. But, I knew that there had to be a better plan for new ESL students entering my classroom.
Here are a few ideas to help newcomers feel included:
• Give your class a pep talk before the student arrives – brainstorm ways to be welcoming and remind the class that a smile is universal. You might even have them create a welcome card in your new student’s native language.
• Assign a buddy – As with any new student, having a buddy who is willing to be your friend and show you the ropes is a huge relief. Choose a kind and willing student, and pair them up.
• Learn some of their language – hearing something familiar will help them feel welcome and more at ease.
• Have alternate activities for them to work on if the class is working on something they might not be able to participate in.
If they don’t know letters, where should I begin?
• Start with the letters in their name. These letters will give them meaning, purpose, and a connection.
• Move onto letters that can begin spelling words or a word family. Starting with “a” and “t” will give them a way to begin blending, and then you can add in “c” “s” “h” and so on.
• Focus on teaching letter sounds more than letter names. As they develop in English skills they will learn letter names. They can also listen to the ABC song for homework.
• Use pictures that will help develop vocabulary.
• Add in a variety of nouns, adjectives, and verbs. While they are working on letters and sounds, they can also develop a English work bank.
• Use repetition. The repetition of the sounds and pictures is key to the language development of a newcomer.
I have designed a Jump Start ESL Curriculum to bridge this gap. The quick start guide will provide you with the most common vocabulary and multiple opportunities for students to practice weekly. Unit 1 consist of 4 weeks. These weeks focus on school, friends, class directions, colors and supplies.
The most important thing you can do for ESL newcomers is to create a comfortable space. You want students to know that they can take risks safely. It’s important never to push, but continue to give opportunities and praise any effort they make!
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