PDI-7: Science for English Language Learners: Adaptations for Inquiry Science Teaching While Building Language Skills

Date: Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Location: Marriott San Francisco Marquis Hotel, Room Yerba Buena 10
Intended Audience: Grades K–12

Recommended Pathway Sessions

Presented by:

ELL/Crowther

Presenter:

David T Crowther, Professor, University of Nevada, Reno

Framing Questions:

1. What is the latest research on methods for teaching science to ELL?
2. Can I teach inquiry science and still help to build language skills for my ELL students?
3. Most Sheltered Instruction programs utilize direct instruction methods. Do inquiry teaching methods work as well?
4. Science uses advanced vocabulary, are there strategies that I can use to build that vocabulary without just front-loading definitions?

Description:

English Language Learner (ELL) populations are growing in classrooms across the nation. Teachers are being asked to provide more language support with minimal or outdated methods for these students. Based upon the most recent research in science education, this session will focus on teaching science and increasing content vocabulary through adaptations to direct instruction that better align with inquiry that allow for a context to be built at the beginning of the lesson, but still allow for students to discover the content. Strategies for teaching content and vocabulary will be modeled through both scaffolding content and tiered vocabulary throughout the entire learning cycle. Participation in this session will help K–12 teachers better serve ELL in their classrooms through the teaching of inquiry science.

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