We are pleased to bring you Volume 40, Issue 1 of MinneTESOL Journal, an excellent collection of pieces focusing on a variety of aspects and contexts of English language teaching and learning. Choonkyong Kim offers how an informed view of the science of reading can help English language teachers better understand ways in which their own existing practice may fit…
Current Issue
How does the science of reading apply to EL teachers?
Most English learner (EL) teachers’ practice already aligns with many aspects of reading instructions supported by the science of reading. An informed view of the science of reading can help EL teachers better understand how their own existing practice may fit into the science of reading framework. Keywords: the science of reading, reading instruction for ELs, literacy education Introduction Minnesota…
Expanding teacher understanding of scaffolding for multilingual learners: A video-based observation tool incorporating a language-based approach to content instruction
Tailored for teacher education coursework and professional learning, a video-based observation tool – incorporating the language-based approach to content instruction (LACI) six Cs of Support – fosters reflection and expands teacher understanding about scaffolding for multilingual learners in general education classrooms. Keywords: scaffolding, multilingual learners, teacher education, university coursework, professional learning, video observation, teacher reflection “After reviewing the six Cs…
All means all: Using policy to change practice in language development instruction for twice exceptional students
Learn how one district built the foundation for collaborative systems to support multilingual learners with individualized education program (IEPs) with examples from a teacher in the field. Keywords: disabilities, collaboration, individualized education program, policy When the authors Kate McNulty, then Director of Bilingual and English Learner (EL) Programming, and Laura Byard, then EL District Program Facilitator, worked in the Minneapolis…
Multilingual literacy: Insights for inclusive reading instruction
Drawing from personal experiences as a multilingual learner and educator, this article advocates for inclusive literacy instruction that values the diverse backgrounds and experiences of students, challenging the predominant ways of teaching reading. Keywords: reading, reading instruction, literacy, immigrant education, newcomers, language arts As a professional learning specialist, I’ve had the privilege of presenting workshops on reading for hundreds of…
Sample elementary texts demonstrating key language functions and features from WIDA 2020
With the publication of the WIDA 2020 English Language Development Standards Framework, teachers have experienced a renewed attention to making language visible through a functional approach to language development. This article uses sample elementary texts in mathematics and social studies to demonstrate this approach by identifying key language functions and features. Keywords: WIDA 2020, functional approach, language features, language functions,…
Multimodality, gamification, and interactivity: Creating a language learning space with ClassIn
ClassIn stands as a widely embraced virtual classroom software that facilitates multi-interactive teaching and learning experiences. It offers an exemplary online language educational space characterized by multimodality, gamification, and interactivity. Keywords: ClassIn, online synchronous teaching, second language education, educational technology Introduction The evolution of digital technologies has opened up new possibilities for language education. Recognizing the constraints of conventional teleconferencing…
Book review of ‘Vocabulary in the foreign language curriculum: Principles for effective instruction’
“Vocabulary in the Foreign Language Curriculum: Principles for Effective Instruction,” by James Milton and Oliver Hopwood. 2022. 211 pages, paperback, ISBN 9781032244853, $48.95 USD, e-book, ISBN 9781003278771, $44.05 USD. Keywords: foreign language instruction, foreign language curriculum, vocabulary instruction Despite the well-established principle that vocabulary is an indispensable area of language learning, there still exist classrooms in which vocabulary is neglected…