Designing class projects for ESOL students should help to enhance their understanding, not provide extra work.
Classrooms consisting of a blend of students with varying levels of familiarity with the English language is not uncommon in the United States today. Teachers must find activities for ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) students that will allow them to participate in the day's lesson at the same level as native English speakers in the class. This includes class projects that may be done in groups or at home.
Writing
Writing projects for ESOL students can be very similar to those used for native English speakers. Writing an autobiography, short story, or book report are excellent examples. It may be necessary to do multiple rough drafts or have the students write their pieces in steps which are later combined. This will help the instructor monitor progress with grammar and the students' ability to express ideas.
Oral
Building oral skills and confidence is essential to students learning English. Conduct a group activity rather than single out students so they don't get nervous. Have students work together to create the rules for a game which reviews lessons in social studies, math, or the like. A "Jeopardy"-style game that requires students to form grammatically correct sentences is a good example of this. Students could also write and produce a play or movie.
Creative Projects
To help build companionship in a classroom, a fun project which allows the students to take a break from learning is an excellent tool. To ensure optimum enthusiasm, the students should be allowed to take charge of the task as much as possible. Have them create a class yearbook, holiday cards or decorations, compose a letter to a famous person, perform a science experiment or take on a research project. Any suggestion from the class that would allow all students to participate equally is a good choice.
Vocabulary
Instructors of ESOL students must spend a great deal of time on vocabulary lessons. Students must learn more advanced English words while learning to translate basic words from their native tongue. Creating labels for classroom objects would be a good activity for students just starting to learning English. More advanced students may translate work together to translate a story from their native tongue to English.
Tags: ESOL students, from their, from their native, learning English, native English