California Teacher of English Learners (CTEL)

California Teacher of English Learners certification.

Foundations of English Language DevelopmentLanguage Acquisition TheoriesCultural and Linguistic Diversity
Assessment and Identification of English LearnersInstructional Strategies for English LearnersLegal and Ethical Responsibilities
Collaborating with Families and CommunitiesDesigning Inclusive Lesson PlansSupporting Social and Emotional Wellbeing
Effective Test Preparation for CTELManaging Test Day Stress
Foundations of Engli...Language Acquisition...Cultural and Linguis...Assessment and Ident...Instructional Strate...Legal and Ethical Re...Collaborating with F...Designing Inclusive ...Supporting Social an...Effective Test Prepa...Managing Test Day St...
Advanced Topics

Instructional Strategies for English Learners

Best Practices for Teaching ELs

Effective instruction for English learners combines language development with content learning. Teachers use a variety of strategies to make lessons accessible and engaging.

Key Strategies

  • Scaffolding: Breaking tasks into manageable steps, using visuals and sentence frames.
  • Sheltered Instruction: Making content understandable through clear language, visuals, and hands-on activities.
  • Academic Language Support: Focusing on the vocabulary and structures students need for school success.

Differentiation

Lessons are adapted to meet students’ individual language levels and learning styles.

Technology Integration

Digital tools and apps can provide extra practice and support.

Classroom Application

Using these strategies, teachers help ELs participate in all classroom activities and master academic content.

Examples

  • A science teacher uses graphic organizers and sentence starters to help ELs explain experiments.

  • An app provides personalized grammar exercises for students at different proficiency levels.

In a Nutshell

Instructional strategies support both language growth and academic achievement for English learners.

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Legal and Ethical Responsibilities