Mathematics for English Language Learners (MELL) is a
research initiative focused on creating instructional tools to aide teachers in
mathematics instruction for ELL students. A core belief of MELL is that there
are pressing economic and societal needs to increase the mathematics
achievements of the ELL student. According to research, ELL performance on math
assessments in Texas is half that of other student groups in Texas. For these
reasons, the MELL project works with TEA and Texas educators to close the
achievement gap for ELL students in math.
The Mathematics for English Language Learners website is a great resource with many videos, lesson plans, hands-on activities, and online training relating to teaching mathematics to ELL students. It offers extensive guidance to educators on how to differentiate instruction and support ELL students. There number of ELL
students increases every day and it is time to start focusing more on how to
use their knowledge of both languages (whatever the first language may be and
English) in the classroom. Math is a basic skill that all students need to
acquire, and language should never be a barrier in acquiring these basic
skills.
Check it out for yourself: http://www.tsusmell.org/index.htm
What strategies do see at work in your classroom now that are mentioned in the website? Do you have any ELLs in your class? Just wondering...
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