Importance of Talk
Supportive Environment
teacher and peer support
sensitivity to needs and boosting confidence
purposefully group students with similar interests
use visuals and hand gestures
use simple vocabulary and avoid idioms
Acceptance of Errors
focus on errors that impede understanding
students need hundreds of exposures in different contexts
complex tasks may supersede language learning
Cooperative Learning
suggested for language acquisition
eases class integration
focuses on process over product
Student Cooperation
model assisting ELLs for whole class
positive attitudes toward language learning
positive attitudes toward newcomers' cultures and languages
Silent Period
natural consequence of unfamiliar environment
can last weeks or months
small groups good way to scaffold ELL participation