As a teacher, it will be important to recognize and understand the academic, social, and emotional needs of English learners based on their prior experiences. This will allow you to better instruct them and make them feel welcome.
Research the following English learner populations:
Students with interrupted formal education (SIFEs)
Long-term English learners (LTELs)
Recently arrived English learners (RAELs)
Refugees
Migrants
Immigrants
Native Americans
Consider exploring the Special Populations: English Language Learners page from Colorín Colorado.
Create an infographic that differentiates the following populations:
Students with interrupted formal education (SIFEs)
Long-term English learners (LTELs)
Recently arrived English learners (RAELs)
Include in your infographic:
An explanation of how refugee, migrant, immigrant, and Native American students pertain as subgroups to each of the 3 groups (SIFEs, LTELs, and RAELs)
Factors that influence English language acquisition for learners from these special populations (i.e., family support, previous schooling, etc.)
Tips on how you can create a safe and inclusive environment for these special populations—think about how you will make these learners feel valued and value each other.
