OEL created a Google Classroom to store resources and information related to ESL instruction. To access the OEL Digital Learning Classroom, teachers can use their class code tcwjbxy. The Google Classroom serves to model strategies teachers can use in their own Google Classroom to intentionally support ELs.

• Tips for ESL Teachers: As you’re setting up your own Google Classroom, you may find it helpful to collaborate with your colleagues from the general education, inclusion or substantially separate homerooms. Younger students and their families may have an easier time navigating to one Google Classroom where you are both “teachers,” whereas secondary students are more accustomed to having multiple courses within their Google Classroom.

• Tips for Content Teachers: When constructing a lesson for your class, differentiating your instruction according to ELD level is a necessary scaffold. Lessons pacing and added supports may look different depending on ELD levels. For a refresher on language scaffolds and differentiation by ELD, refer to the WIDA 2012 Amplification of the English Language Development Standards.

• Tips for All Teachers of ELs: Not all students and families may be able to follow strict time frames, but providing students with schedules that remain consistent from day-to-day in collaboration with your colleagues may help minimize the inevitable disruption that arises from the change in environment. OEL suggests including scheduled periods for whole class instruction, individual check-ins, and the assignment of both independent and group work, differentiated according to ELD level. The most effective daily routines will look different according to individual circumstances. An example of a daily schedule is located in the OEL Digital Learning Classroom.