The following approaches mentioned in the video* can help EAL learners feel more confident, included, and able to fully participate in lessons:
- Scaffolding. Break tasks into manageable steps and begin by using very basic language, and adapt it to the child’s level of English.
- Use visuals, sensory aids and technology. Provide visual clues, sensory resources, and music to help clarify meaning.
- Collaborative learning. Use group work to encourage peer support and if possible, pair a learner with a peer who speaks the same home language (if that peer is fluent).
- Translanguaging and home-language use. Allow pupils to use their home language as a learning resource. This builds confidence and helps with understanding.
- Involving families and community members. Invite multilingual parents or community members to support learning. Draw from their cultural knowledge to help deepen understanding and help multilingual children feel represented and valued.
*This clip is taken from our webinar: Helping EAL learners succeed: The latest evidence
