2. Focus on sentence structure and grammar
● Introduce sentence-building activities: Use sentence strips where they arrange words into the correct order. This reinforces the subject-verb-object structure.
● Teach sentence stems: Give them basic sentence frames like “I like ___” or “My favorite ___ is ___.” This helps them understand sentence structure and express simple ideas.
● Teach subject-verb agreement: Keep sentences short and clear to avoid overwhelming them, and gradually introduce more complex structures as they progress.
3. Assign short writing activities and incorporate visuals
● Picture prompts: Use images and have students write a sentence or two about what they see. This reduces the cognitive load of coming up with an idea and allows them to focus on forming sentences.
● Utilize the IRC/ITC Picture Outline: This is from our first-grade curriculum, but it also works very well with ELL students.
4. Use scaffolding techniques
● Model writing: Write in front of the students, explaining your thought process and breaking down steps as you go. This helps them understand the sequence of thinking and writing.
● Guided and shared writing: Provide lots of opportunities for them to write with your help and support
5. Practice key writing skills in small steps
● Build from sentences to paragraphs: Once they’re comfortable with single sentences, help them write short paragraphs. Start with simple topics, like describing a family member or their favorite food.
● Work on coherence and cohesion: Introduce linking words (like “and,” “but,” & “because”) to connect ideas and create more flow.
6. Choose text sets according to reading level
● Use leveled reading materials: When introducing text-based writing, consider using below-level text that is both simpler and shorter. Choose simple texts that match their skill level.
7. Provide clear feedback
● Focus on strengths: Point out what students did well before addressing errors. This builds confidence and shows them what successful writing looks like.
● Address errors selectively: Don’t correct everything at once. Choose one or two areas to focus on, like verb tenses or word order, depending on the student’s current skills.
8. Make writing collaborative and fun
● Group writing projects: Let students work in pairs or small groups on simple writing tasks. This allows them to learn from each other and feel more comfortable.
● Creative or personally relevant writing prompts: Select topics that students are familiar with and thus may have a higher vocabulary to use to express their thoughts and ideas.
9. Incorporate digital tools for practice
● Use language learning apps: Tools like Duolingo or Quizlet help reinforce vocabulary and grammar, while apps like Seesaw or Google Docs can help with writing practice.
● Encourage typing practice: Using computers for writing can make corrections easier and encourage more extensive writing, especially if students are more comfortable with typing.
10. Be patient and celebrate progress
● Recognize each step they take towards better writing and encourage them to keep practicing. Writing in a new language takes time, and encouragement can make a big difference in their progress.