Science for English Language Learners: K-12 Classroom Strategies
Sat, May 03, 2008 6:38 PM
A Great Beginner Book for ELL Teachers
Published by the National Science Teachers Association, Science for English Language Learners is a book designed to help teachers implement inquiry based science while maximizing learning opportunities for English Language Learners. Author Ann K. Fathman is a dedicated professional who has dedicated her time to working with English Language Learners while author David T. Crowther spent his career working in the Science Education field. Both authors have joined together and combined their expertise to write a book on how to tackle both areas of education.
The book is organized into four sections. Section I provides readers with an extensive overview of Science and English Language Learners. Section II focuses on planning, teaching, assessing, and extending learning. While the chapters focus primarily on strategies for working with ELL students, many strategies would be beneficial for any student. The third section provides sample lesson plans for classrooms from the primary grades to the high school grades. These lessons have been designed and taught by classroom teachers around the country. The fourth section wraps up with information on standards in education and integrating both Science and English as a Second Language.
The most beneficial section of this book is by far, the sample lesson plans that have been designed and taught by teachers. The lessons are detailed, including standards and objectives, background, materials, activities, and summary. Depending upon the grade level, charts and diagrams are also included in the lesson plan. It is very easy to follow and provides the reader with a sense of how it will look when you incorporate strategies for teaching English Language Learners in your classroom. However, while standards are included, they may not be relevant to you. The standards listed depend on the creator’s state. Living in Pennsylvania, Florida standards are not relevant to me.
Another strength of this teaching resource is the beginning sections on English Language Learners. If a reader is unfamiliar with English Language Learners, this book will provide the very basic information to get them started such as strategies for working with, how a second language is learned, and connecting with families. Strategies to incorporate into your teaching are discussed and while this is a science related book, these strategies could be implemented into any area of teaching.
If English Language Learners are apart of your community at school, then this book will help provide some basic information on English Language Learners as related to the science education field. Browse through the book, read the chapters that are relevant to you, and you will be satisfied with the information provided and new teaching strategies that you can implement in your own classroom.