Science instruction for ELs

Last week was math; this week is science! I started racking my brain and researching and a lot of the tips I was thinking of could be applied to any content area, so stay tuned for those more general tips in two weeks (next week will be social studies).

Science is interesting because while it can be very difficult for our ELs, it's also a class that many of them like because it's more hands-on. This can help them learn and to be more motivated, but there are still some things that many ELs struggle with. Here are some tips for teaching science to ELs!

• Vocabulary skills are important for everyone, but especially for English learners. Preteach important vocabulary terms, and use them in multiple formats. Consider creating weekly or by-unit packets with simple definitions, pictures, key root words, etc. Allow ELs to use bilingual dictionaries or glossaries (ask me if you want some!) but make sure they know how to use them.
• Include graphics when needed and models of how to answer each type of question. If needed, include sentence starters/cloze sentences and a word bank.
• Incorporate short videos when possible. Don't forget the subtitles!
• Create anchor charts to put around the room with often-used words, such as common science terms, ordinal numbers, names of lab equipment, etc.
• Consider the "language load" of an assignment or project. How can you support the EL in understanding directions, a reading, or a question? Simplifying language, using realia, and showing pictures are all good tactics.
• Do your best to make abstract concepts concrete. Show a 3-D model of a molecule or a timelapse video of a plant growing.
• Don't expect an EL to know the same basics as a non-EL, whether it is vocabulary, content, or skills such as how to measure or graph. Many of them didn't study science, or maybe didn't attend much school at all, so they will need instruction in these basic areas.

I want to close with this great quote I found. Let me know if you need help or advice in trying to incorporate any of these tips in your classroom!