Following are tips for working with a newcomer in your classroom. Newcomers are students who do not speak any English yet. These
students need a very low anxiety environment. All of their attempts at speaking, reading or writing English should be praised and acknowledged.
- Visuals and Motions
- Use pictures to introduce new or unknown vocabulary and gestures to act out instructions or commands.
- Dictionaries
- Provide picture and translation dictionaries for students to use.
- Buddy Tutor
- Pair the student up with a buddy who can help them when needed and work with them on learning basic vocabulary and commands.
- Native Language
- Let students know thier native language is important too. Allow them to write in the native language in the beginning.
As they learn more English vocabulary have them draw a picture, label it, and then write simple sentences in English about their picture.
- Questions
- Ask questions with one word answers or either/or options. Also accept non-verbal responses such as pointing or acting out.
- Modifications
- Modify the text to be used by writing a summary or re-writing the text using a lower register (simpler sentences).
- Assessments
- Use alternative forms of assessment to allow students to demonstrate their learning. For example, writing in their native language
about what they've learned, matching pictures to definitions, creating a visual representation, working with a partner or small group, etc.
- Be Patient
- Newcomers need plenty of wait or think time when asked questions. Students may also go through a silent period when they first arrive, this is normal,
don't force them to speak but encourage drawings and gestures as responses.
