Article 6

Title:

Framework for English Language Proficiency Development Standards Corresponding to the Common Core State Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards

Link: Framework for English Language Proficiency Development Standards Correspond...: Western OneSearch

Summary:

Numerous states have started in the process of developing and further adapting English Language Proficiency (ELP) standards in order to have them align with the Common Core State Standards (CCSS).  With this alignment in place it will not only assure that students receive the best education possible but it will also prepare students for years of education to come because ELP standards are also aligned to college and career readiness standards. 

The main objective of the English Language Proficiency Development (ELPD) Framework is to provide a basic foundation to states on how to use the expectations of the CCSS in order to successfully create and evaluate the ELP standards.   These standards not only set a performance standard amongst various subject areas but they also require a certain level of language in order to gain an strong academic foundation. As a result, the ELP standards must be explored in order to determine what supports are needed to best support ELL students with the language skills they need to reach proficiency on all levels.

Reflection:

        This report helped me to better understand the CCSS as well as the ELP standards.  It provided me with insight on not only how different aspects of the different standards align but how different premises guide the development of much of the framework.  I was also provided with valuable information on Understanding Language Task Force Model and Formative Language Assessment Records (FLARE) Model Both of these models helped to clarify my understanding of the ELP standards.

References: 
Council of Chief State School Officers, (2012). Framework for English language proficiency development standards corresponding to the common core state standards and the next generation science standards.

Article 5

Title:
Teaching English Language Learners: 43 Strategies for Successful K-8 Classrooms

Link: Teaching English Language Learners : 43 Strategies for Successful K-8 Class...: Western OneSearch

Summary:

The book, Teaching English Language Learners: 43 Strategies for Successful K-8 classrooms, discusses many strategies that teachers may apply in order to better support ELL students. The information provided in this book seems to be a great resource for classroom teachers who maybe struggling to meet the needs of English language learners. 

Each unit within this book is aligned with TESOL teacher and student standards and it also provides student performance indicators for many of the chapters. The units are designed to include a thorough overview of the objectives for that unity and what information the reader will gain after the completion of each particular unit.

Reflection:

This year is not only my first year working for a family literacy center it is also my first exposure to the concept of "home visits" In chapter 42 of Teaching English Language Learners: 43 Strategies for Successful K-8 classrooms, it discusses the theory/research underlying the home visit strategy.  I found it interesting in learning that providing home visits to children is not only beneficial in the fact that it provides extra one on one support for the child, but that it also creates opportunity for educators and families to work collaboratively as equal partners in their child's education. With this idea in mind it seems that the education is not only taken more seriously but that the families take pride in the fact that they are their child's first teacher.

References: 

Colombo, M. (2012). Teaching English language learners: 43 strategies for successful k-8 classrooms. Los Angeles, CA: Sage Publications.