Learning Opportunities

Most students who are adding English to the languages they know initially go through a silent period, during which they listen and observe more than they speak. After this ‘silent period’, many students move on to providing short one or two word answers during classroom conversation and short written responses and have the necessary language for daily life and social interactions.

Research indicates a strong relationship between oral language proficiency and higher-level literacy development, such as reading comprehension and writing. This session will highlight some of the research behind oral language and academic discourse as well as provide some simple to implement strategies to foster student talk.

Target Audience

Teachers: 1-6

Also Recommended For

Instructional Coaches, Learning Coaches, Inclusive Learning Teachers, District Leaders/Consultants, Educational/Instructional Assistants