English Language Learners

Cultural Knowledge

Becoming aware of the cultural backgrounds of English language leaner (ELL) students and how cultural differences can support and affect learning is another key facet of effective instruction for ELLs. Many classroom teachers have not been prepared to tap into the different kinds of prior knowledge that culturally diverse ELLs bring to the classroom, and have also not been prepared to scaffold ELLs' transition from their previous educational experiences to schooling in the U.S.

We work with teachers to expand their knowledge of how to deliver equitable and culturally responsive instruction to ELLs. We do this through implementing research-based professional development curricula we have designed, that focus specifically on the unique cultural backgrounds and needs of ELLs.