Marshall University has allowed me to work on my Master's Degree online while teaching second grade full-time. I have researched and studied many theories and reasonings behind how to incorporate ESL practices into my everyday teaching and in my future ESL classroom. I have spent countless hours reading textbooks that have helped me learn how to help English Language Learners. I am confident in my abilities to celebrate cultures, embrace diversity, and watch students succeed in my classroom. 

I have spent countless hours observing ESL teachers who have shared such great information with me. I have watched pull-out groups as well as push-in groups. I have seen students struggle with confidence and have watched ESL teachers handle that gracefully. My biggest takeaway from this course and my experience has resulted in two practices I will strive to complete every year. The first practice is cultivating relationships with the students and their families. The second practice is to utilize visual aids as much as possible. This makes things so much easier for everyone. This goes for all age groups, as I find this to be the most important. 

 

The two practices discussed above help create and build confidence in ESL students. Building a relationship with them and their families can create a safe learning environment for them. You are also trying to reach out to families, and they will appreciate that. The second practice, being visual aids, is essential so they do not have to understand only words. By seeing pictures around the room, students can understand quickly what is where. My top priorities as a teacher are making your students feel comfortable, confident, and safe.. That said, I am incorporating some of the papers I have written below and the textbooks that have helped me become a better teacher.