Microsoft Word has a built-in transcribe option to help our ML learners and any other student who needs extra support. 

This built-in transcription option is an excellent opportunity for our students to improve many skills. You'll need to give permission to the students to use the transcribe option during your class. If you disagree with this, you must let the student know.

I made a quick video about how to translate documents (PDF, Word, etc.) using Google Translate. It is not 100% perfect, but it can do the work.

Strategies and suggestions to help teachers effectively support ESL students as they transition to our school.

Supporting newly arrived ESL (English as a Second Language) students is rewarding but challenging. Here are some strategies, suggestions, resources, and links to help you effectively support these students.

1. Cultivate an Inclusive Classroom environment:

   - Foster a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment that values diversity and encourages participation from all students.

   - Create opportunities for students to share their cultural backgrounds, experiences, and languages, helping them feel more comfortable and respected.

2. Use Visual Aids and Multimodal Resources:

   - Utilize visual aids, such as images, diagrams, and videos, to enhance understanding and communication.

   - Incorporate multimedia resources that provide context and support for challenging concepts.

3. Scaffold Instruction:

   - Break down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps to support comprehension and skill development.

   - Provide clear instructions and model the process before expecting students to complete assignments independently.

4. Differentiate Instruction:

   - Tailor instruction to accommodate various language proficiency levels within the classroom.

   - Provide modified assignments, additional resources, or alternative assessments to meet the needs of ESL students.

5. Utilize Cooperative Learning:

   - Encourage group activities that promote student interaction and collaboration, allowing ESL learners to practice language skills in a supportive setting.

6. Provide Real-World Context:

   - Connect lessons to real-world situations that are relevant and relatable to students' experiences.

   - Discuss current events, cultural topics, and local issues to engage ESL students and promote language development.

7. Use Language Learning Apps and Tools:

   - Incorporate language learning apps and digital tools that offer interactive exercises, vocabulary building, and language practice outside of class.

   - Duolingo, Quizlet, and Anki are some examples of such tools.

8. Offer Bilingual Resources:

   - Provide bilingual glossaries, dictionaries, or translated materials to help ESL students understand key terms and concepts.

9. Encourage Reading and Writing:

   - Assign readings that align with students' language proficiency levels and interests.

   - Encourage journaling, short writing assignments, and creative writing to develop language skills.

10. Collaborate with me:

    - Work closely with me to share insights, strategies, and resources for supporting ESL students effectively.

    - Collaborate on differentiated instruction plans and co-teaching opportunities.

*Remember, patience, empathy, and a willingness to learn from your students will contribute to a positive and effective classroom environment for newly arrived ESL students.

Resources and links to help teachers effectively support ESL students as they transition to our school.

Resources and Links:

- Colorín Colorado: A bilingual site for educators and families of English language learners. It offers strategies, lesson plans, and resources.

- TESOL International Association: TESOL provides professional development resources, lesson plans, and articles about teaching English learners.

- Edutopia ESL/ELL Resources: Edutopia offers a collection of articles, videos, and strategies for supporting English language learners.

- Larry Ferlazzo's Websites of the Day: This blog by an educator includes resources, lesson plans, and links for teaching ELLs.

- ReadWorks: Offers leveled reading passages and comprehension activities suitable for various ESL proficiency levels.

- Newsela: Provides news articles at different reading levels, allowing ESL students to engage with current events and practice reading skills.