Because you are here reading these posts, I already know that you are a teacher who wants to embrace all your students. I admire that so much. Teaching is so difficult and rewarding. I was on a hike today, and I chatted with a couple for a minute. I told him I was a teacher educator, and they said, “Now, that’s a noble profession that isn’t easy!” They are right!
Here are 5 practices you do that show love and support for Multilingual Learners. I want you to know that I “see” you as you embrace your students in these ways.
1. Know and Say Their Names
It’s so validating for a student to be called by their given name. It’s impressive to see you practice them and work on saying them as close to the correct pronunciation as possible.
2. Embrace and Them for Who They Are
Any child who believes their teachers accept and embrace them for who they are tends to be more motivated. I see you learning a bit of their language, asking about their desires and wishes, studying their countries’ histories, and welcoming them warmly.
3. Create Comprehensible Input so They Understand the Curriculum
When Multilingual Learners see you making linguistic accommodations, scaffolding, adding visuals, letting them use their languages, and pairing them with helpers, they are able to relax and learn more. It shows you truly care to make that effort.
4. Value ALL Languages and Cultures
Multilingual Learners notice when their flag is hanging in the classroom; their languages are on posters on the walls; and books from their countries in their languages are on the shelves. They notice when you defend them from derogatory remarks from others. They notice when you highlight the contributions of their language and cultures to the community.
5. Create a Collaborative Community With Peers
Through peer collaboration, MLs learn in ways that you might not be able to do. You recognize that learning is social. You set up a classroom where peers know their classmates’ names, and they regularly work on projects together and recognize the strengths of everyone in the group.
Thank you for all you do in and outside the classroom to create the most loving space for Multilingual Learners at all stages of language development. I respect and admire you.
I hope you are good to yourself and congratulate yourself on being in one of the most difficult, rewarding, and heart-stretching professions.
Transformational teaching is about creating a culture of openness, trust, and support in the classroom. -bell hooks
Please share what you love about working with MLs.
If this was helpful to you, click the “like” button below.