SIOP

SIOP: WHAT IS SHELTERED INSTRUCTION?

Sheltered Instruction (SI) is an approach to teaching that extends the time that MLL students have for receiving English language support while they learn content subjects. Sheltered Instruction classrooms, which may include a mix of native English speakers and Multilingual Learners or only Multilingual Learners, integrate language and content while infusing socio- cultural awareness. Teachers scaffold instruction to aid student comprehension of content topics and objectives by adjusting their speech and instructional tasks, and by providing appropriate background information and experiences. The ultimate goal is accessibility for Multilingual Learners to grade-level content standards and concepts while they continue to improve their English language proficiency.

Danbury Public Schools' K-12 SIOP instructional Coaches provide ongoing job-embedded support for ESL/Bilingual and Regular Education teachers.