In the international school landscape, our classrooms are vibrant, multilingual hubs. However, for many students, the complexity of Humanities, Science, and specialized subjects can feel like a locked door. How do we ensure that a student’s English proficiency doesn't cap their potential in our content areas?
This session addresses the "Access Gap" through a two-pronged approach: Structural Support and Strategic Instruction. First, we will explore a collaborative structural model where EAL specialists "push-in" to content classes and provide dedicated support time to reinforce core concepts. This shift moves away from isolated language instruction and places it directly where it's needed most: in every classroom.
Second, we will equip subject teachers with high-impact, low-prep strategies that benefit all students in a multilingual environment. We will move beyond "English-only" mindsets to embrace translanguaging, create effective dual-language supports, and leverage technology like IXL to personalize the learning journey. Join us to learn how to transform your classroom into a space where every student, regardless of their language starting point, can master your content.
Learning Outcomes:
- The Co-Teaching Framework: Understand the structural benefits of the "Push-In" model and how content and EAL teachers can maximize their time together.
- Translanguaging as a Tool: Learn how to strategically allow students to use their full linguistic repertoire to brainstorm, process, and clarify complex content.
- Scaffolding without Simplifying: Discover how to design support materials and dual-language vocabulary lists that maintain high cognitive demand while providing linguistic access, that eventually phases out.
- Tech-Enhanced Learning: Explore how to integrate platforms like IXL to provide targeted, data-driven language practice tailored to specific subject-area standards.
