Language Rich, Interactive Classroom Routines
Language use routines allow newcomers to integrate and participate in class. 7 Steps to a Language-Rich Interactive Classroom outlines 7 simple instructional steps ensure active learning. BVSD uses 7 Steps as a guide to creating the predictable environment that newcomers (and all learners) need to fully engage in their learning.
STEP 2
Teach Complete Sentence Responses to expand academic vocabulary.
STEP 3
Randomize & Rotate for real time feedback.
STEP 4
Use Total Response Signals for 100% participation.
STEP 6
Teach students to participate in structured conversations .
STEP 7
Teach students to participate in structured reading and writing activities in every content.
AVOID SAYING...
"Who can tell me...? "
Who remembers..."
"Raise your hand if you know..."
"You should already know this."
These phrases discourage active participation. Use 7 Steps instead.
What is it? The teacher begins building a visual on the classroom wall and adds to and refers to it throughout the unit of study. This helps students make connections to what they have learned and see how terms are related to one another.
Select topic and picture that illustrates the concepts to be taught.
Either by free-hand, tracing or using an opaque projector, lightly outline the image you want to reproduce.
Starting with the concept upon which you will build your instruction, outline with a bold
marker or color in the image, labeling the parts. Additional information may also be added
about this part now or later. In the example below the function of the roots could be explained and water/nutrients symbols added.
As you guide learning, add on to each subsequent section with high levels of student talk and use of academic vocabulary specific to the content...until the full picture/image/diagram is revealed.
Depending on your lesson objective additional details/information can be added:
• as you draw
• at the end of the drawing (note: not every petal is filled in. It can be done later)
• during subsequent lessons
6. The chart remains posted in the classroom for students to review, discuss and reference.
7. They may also be saved to record what has been taught/learned over time by storing them stacked behind each other or taking a picture as part of a study or review guide.
Algebra Example: built over time with key vocab & labels
Earth Science Example: Co-constructed Anchor Chart
LA Example: Knowledge Maps connecting ideas
Students transfer visual to their own notes
Watch one in action!