Module 5 was about the new literacies for English learners.
A main topic for this topic was
technology and how it has benefited education and how we can use it in the classroom to support
ELLs. The textbook explains how there used to only be language that we speak and a huge
revolution was print. Now, we have an even bigger revolution which is technology. Students
have always been taught to read and write. Students now also have to be taught to use technology
such as finding resources, submitting work, emailing etc. Technology has made it possible to
have a world of information right in front of you at all times. This is very beneficial to every
learner, but specifically for ELLs. ELLs have many online resources that can help them be more
successful. Text to speech and online translators can be very helpful in the ELL classroom.
Technology has made it possible for these students to have independent learning time, because a
teacher is not required to be their teaching 100% of the time anymore since there are many
online resources the students can use to learn on their own. When learning on their own, students
can choose what resources best suite their learning style. They have the freedom to find
resources that they feel they learn best from. Finding resources with pictures, videos, or games
can help with comprehension. Since students are independently finding resources they enjoy,
there is a great chance that other students in the class would benefit from their resources as well.
When the students are done independently learning, they can get in groups and share what
resources they found. This will help other students find great resources to promote their learning,
and it will also allow for communication skills for the students. Communication skills are very
important for ELLs. Sharing their resources and explaining them to their peers will allow for
them to practice good communication skills. During this time the teacher can ask students how
they are doing and what they are working on. The students and the teacher will be aware of the
struggles and strengths in the classroom. The teacher can make accommodations for future
lessons based on how the student are doing after their independent learning time. The use of
technology will bring differentiation to the ELL classroom and it is a great benefit for the
students and their learning.
Works Cited
Peregoy, S. F., & Boyle, O. (2008).
Reading, writing and learning in ESL: A resource book for K-12 teachers
. Boston: Pearson Education/Allyn & Bacon.
