Language Strategies for home and the Classroom

  • Check hearing! *****
  • Use a partner to assist student in responding
  • Use highlighter to identify key words in written directions
  • Number directions in sequential order, use directional arrows and simpler language
  • Present workbook pages one at a time
  • Have child sit closer to you or where there’s less distractions
  • Have student, parent, or teacher keep a log of unfamiliar words which he/she encounters each day, have the child look up the word and write its meaning in the journal as well
  • Give the student a “word of the day” which is incorporated into speaking time (i.e. answering questions)
  • Repeat phrases used by the student, revising the vocabulary or paraphrase to include a larger speaking vocabulary (i.e. Student says, “I like TV,” you can say “I’m glad you like the shows on TV”)
  • Refocus the student by using his/her name during lessons/activities
  • Rephrase directions and make them simpler
  • Have student paraphrase materials they’ve read, letting them use their own language
  • Model the correct language structure and content, keeping it simple in the beginning
  • Prompt for more questions, using physical and/or verbal indicators
  • Highlight key directional words in notebooks
  • Use flash cards for new vocabulary, spelling, or other academic vocabulary words. Have student use the word(s) in a sentence
  • Have the student describe the steps to complete a common activity or task (i.e. How to go to lunch, pack your bag, etc.)
  • Use visuals! (Pictures to support directions, visual schedule, etc.)