Who are English Language Learners?

It is common that when ESL student or English Language Learner is mentioned, most people think of a Spanish speaking child. This is not the case, it is any child whose primary language that is spoken at home is not English. It is important as a teacher that we are sensitive to all students but especially to those who do not come from the same culture that we do.
I have searched how to better prepare yourself when having an ESL student in your classroom. I have included the top 10 list taken from http://www.teachersfirst.com/content/esl/eslhintintro.cfm. You can also click on each of the statements below and a link will appear below if you would like more information.

10. Become familiar with ESL websites

  9. Have realistic expectations of your ESL student.

  8. Check your own attitude.

  7. Capitalize on holidays.

  6. Try to incorporate aspects of your student’s culture into your plans.

  5. Give the students extra grammar practice.

  4. Work on your language skills.

  3. Provide extra vocabulary help with every lesson.

  2. Learn about gestures from other cultures.

  1. Don’t assume students know how the American educational system works.