Page 4 - Five Things Teachers Can Do to Improve Learning

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Teach Out of the Box
It is resolution season! Of course, we all know that resolutions are hard to keep and can often be unrealistic. Teachers are always looking for ways to improve in the classroom; to assist with any of your New Year's resolutions that relate to instruction, Kristina recommends five specific and measurable actions you can implement to assist ELLs in the classroom – but suggests that you pick just one to try!
It is resolution season! In January we reflect on past joys and concerns from the previous year, and take the opportunity to make a resolution that will improve our lives in the New Year. Of course, we all know that resolutions are hard to keep and can often be unrealistic. The expert advice I've received on resolutions (mostly advice from women's magazines) states that you are more likely to be successful if your goal is specific and measurable. So, instead of saying, "I want to save more money" you might say, "I want to save enough money each month so that I can buy a new computer in August."
Teachers are always looking for ways to improve in the classroom; to assist with any of your New Year's resolutions that relate to instruction, I will recommend five specific and measurable actions you can implement to assist English language learners in the classroom. To increase the likelihood of success and continuity, I suggest teachers pick one item and stick to it for the rest of the year. It is better to do one thing consistently and do it well than to try to do all five and possibly lose focus and motivation, becoming a Jack of all trades and master of none. I also suggest teachers employ the "support group" method to ensure success and use the chosen strategy as a topic for a professional learning community. Sharing successes and challenges with colleagues will help you all grow professionally, and more students will benefit academically.
All of the following strategies have been featured on the Colorín Colorado website, and the Hotlinks section has links to helpful articles and websites for further support. When choosing an instructional strategy, frame it as a specific and measurable goal and display it next to your desk to remind you of what you want to accomplish.
4 The Bronx Institute at Lehman College