What is an effective strategy to support English language learners (ELL)?

Using visuals and scaffolding instruction is an effective strategy for supporting English language learners (ELL) because these approaches address the linguistic and cognitive needs of students who are still acquiring proficiency in English. Visuals, such as images, diagrams, and videos, can help students better understand and engage with content by providing concrete references that anchor abstract concepts. This is crucial for ELL students, as they may struggle to comprehend verbal explanations alone.

Scaffolding instruction means breaking down lessons into manageable parts and providing support tailored to the students' current level of understanding. This could involve modeling tasks, providing sentence frames, or using graphic organizers, which enable ELLs to progressively build their skills and confidence in both language and content areas. By integrating these strategies, educators create an inclusive learning environment where ELL students can thrive alongside their peers and actively participate in classroom activities.