Which practice involves building on relevant knowledge for ELL learners?

Building on relevant knowledge for English Language Learners (ELL) is foundational in supporting their language acquisition and cognitive development. Creating background knowledge where none exists allows educators to connect new information to concepts that ELLs may already be somewhat familiar with, even if their understanding is not fully developed. This practice acknowledges the prior experiences and knowledge that learners bring to the classroom, which can significantly enhance their ability to grasp new material.

In the context of teaching ELLs, this approach ensures that instruction is not just focused on language fluency or standardized assessments but is instead tailored to the unique backgrounds of each student. When teachers create opportunities to link lessons to the cultural and personal experiences of ELL students, it promotes engagement and encourages deeper learning. This strategy also helps demystify complex subjects, making them more accessible to students still developing their language skills.

By fostering connections through background knowledge, teachers can help students feel more comfortable and confident, enabling them to participate more fully and effectively in the learning process.