Sheltering Lessons for English Language Learners

Sheltering a lesson plan can give English Language Learners the support that they need to access the same content as their English fluent peers.  It is important to keep in mind that while ELLs are learning a new language, they are also responsible for keeping up with content area learning as well. What may seem like a task that is way out of a student’s reach, can become a meaningful and beneficial learning experience with the addition of carefully planned sheltered instruction. Below are a few SIOP (Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol) strategies that teachers can use to increase comprehension for ELL students.

Prior to reading:

-explicitly explain both the content and language objectives: “our goal for today is _____.”

-preview vocabulary: write it on the board, read it aloud, give context, show pictures

-utilize a graphic organizer to encourage students to access prior knowledge

-ask guiding questions and give students time to discuss their answers in groups

-explicit instruction on reading strategies to increase comprehension

 

During reading:

-ask clarifying questions

-read aloud (either teacher or students) so that students can hear and see the words simultaneously

-slow and clear pronunciation

-remind students to utilize strategies

-model strategies within the text, “I do, we do, you do”

-repetition of vocabulary

-give students time to make connections and to process what they have just heard, seen or learned

 

After reading:

-review vocabulary

-provide students with opportunities to clarify misconceptions or ask questions

-give students time for discussion in groups

 

During sheltered instruction, the students should be engaged in reading, writing, listening and speaking, where they are both comprehending and producing language. Students should work in groups of peers where they can discuss ideas and share experiences.

Teachers must know their students and be familiar content area expectations in order to provide the appropriate amount and type of scaffolding to make content accessible and meaningful for the learner.

 

 

Resources:

Sheltered Literacy Lesson Video. Regis University. Retrieved on 2/2/2015.