This course examines research-based teaching strategies, methods, and materials for culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students. Students explore culturally responsive teaching, sheltered instruction, and instructional approaches that promote both English language development and access to grade-level academic content. Emphasis is placed on selecting, adapting, and implementing appropriate methods and materials that address varying levels of language proficiency, cultural and linguistic backgrounds, and academic needs of CLD learners.

At the completion of this course, the learner will be able to:

• Understand the foundational principles and theories of effective ESL instruction and the processes used to identify, screen, place, and monitor English learners. InTASC 1,2,7
• Analyze and evaluate a variety of teaching techniques and approaches, including task-based learning, communicative language teaching, content-based instruction, sheltered instruction, and culturally responsive teaching, and select the most appropriate approaches for different CLD learners and learning situations. InTASC 1,3,8
• Demonstrate an understanding of how to differentiate instruction for students at different levels of English proficiency to address the linguistic, academic, and cultural needs of English learners, including those with special needs. InTASC 1,2,7
• Understand how to effectively integrate technology into ESL instruction and evaluate the potential benefits and drawbacks of technology in the classroom. InTASC 4
• Develop effective lesson plans and select, adapt, and implement appropriate methods and materials for CLD students that align with research-based teaching strategies and meet the needs of students at various levels of English proficiency. InTASC 6,7
• Explain major legal and policy requirements governing the identification, instruction, assessment, educational access, and family engagement of English learners. InTASC 9,10