How to Teach English as an SL2

Teaching English to non-native speakers is a gradual process. Within two years, it is generally expected that someone who has been fully immersed in English will be able to communicate in informal settings with native speakers. The mastery of academic language, and the ability to perform at grade level in a school setting with native speakers takes from 5 to 7 years. Teachers of the English language to non-native speakers should create language-rich lessons based on the skill level of the learner, providing him with frequent opportunity to practice speaking and listening to English.

Things You'll Need

  • Flashcards
  • Pictures
  • Audio recordings
  • Video clips
  • Grammar worksheets
  • Camcorder
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Instructions

    • 1

      Expose students to a language rich environment. Label items in the classroom. Provide visuals when using English words. Speak in English to the students as mush as possible. Expect students new to learning English to demonstrate understanding by asking them yes or no questions, allowing them to copy English words or to match them with a picture.

    • 2

      Use flashcards with pictures to familiarize students with common nouns. Use rote and repetition to practice verb tenses. Have students listen to simple English exchanges using audio recording or video clips. When students begin to display language production skills, expect short two and three word answers to simple questions. Teach them short useful phrases to use in social situations. Allow them to practice new phrases with classmates. Have students label pictures with single words and continue matching or circling correct written answers.

    • 3

      Teach simple sentences by having students describe pictures of everyday objects and situations. Model proper subject and verb agreement in your own speech. Let students practice making sentences by speaking with you, with classmates and by writing short sentences below pictures.

    • 4

      Encourage students to engage in dialogue with each other by role playing social interactions such as ordering a meal or asking for directions.

    • 5

      Expand emergent speakers' vocabulary by introducing new words daily and using them often. Continue to use flashcards, label items in the environment and model proper use of the English language.

    • 6

      Use direct instruction if necessary in teaching grammar. Explain each part of speech, and how it us used. Give examples. Model correct sentence structure and subject and verb agreement. Have students take notes on lectures. Use worksheets to reinforce new concepts.

    • 7

      Build academic language skills by continuing to introduce new vocabulary each week. Have students memorize vocabulary words, and use them in writing and role playing.

    • 8

      Film students' dialogue in class to have them examine their own English language usage. Then having them correct any mistakes they hear. Provide frequent opportunities for listening and speaking in your classroom.

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