Why teach linguistics?
The number of students coming to school who speak a language other than English has risen tremendously over the last several years, and so has the expectation of performance for all students. Non-native English speakers are expected to take standardized tests and perform at a language proficiency level at par with their peers. Depending on age and level of schooling in the native language, it will take an ESL student anywhere from 5-10 years to reach the level of performance of their native speaking peers. (Thomas & Collier, 1997). Teachers who have a thorough understanding of linguistics will be able to help students become proficient in English at a faster rate than if the task were left solely to the ESOL teacher. All of the strategies discussed throughout this site can be used by any teacher and related to any content area. If you expect your students to read, write, listen, or speak in English, this information is for you!
Teaching linguistics
Each page of this site addresses the components of linguistics and provides suggestions for teaching strategies. The use of cooperative learning, Think-Pair-Share, small groups, to name a few, to provide exposure to various language structures and vocabulary is key in language learning. Beginning and Emergent level language learners who are in the silent phase or only able to produce one or two word responses will also benefit greatly from these strategies and should be included.
Teaching linguistics
Each page of this site addresses the components of linguistics and provides suggestions for teaching strategies. The use of cooperative learning, Think-Pair-Share, small groups, to name a few, to provide exposure to various language structures and vocabulary is key in language learning. Beginning and Emergent level language learners who are in the silent phase or only able to produce one or two word responses will also benefit greatly from these strategies and should be included.