Accommodating English Language Learners at OCC
Speaker: Justin Pritchard
Overview
- Introduction to support for English Language Learners (ELLs) at OCC
- Importance of adapting support strategies for ELL students
- Framework of this introductory video and following modules
- Contact information for assistance: Justin's office (Gordon 202a), phone extension 6093 (on-campus), 498-6093 (off-campus), email
Key Topics Discussed
Importance of This Work
- Recent census: nearly 1 in 5 households in the OCC region speaks a language other than English at home
- Syracuse City School District: Over 70 different languages spoken
- Importance of supporting processing time and time on task for ELLs
- Transition from True beginner (A1) to L1 proficiency in 6-8 years, depending on various factors
- Need for policies to accommodate language needs in academic testing
Key Terms and Frameworks
- L1: First language
- L2: Second language
- Target Language: Language being learned (often English)
- CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference): International language proficiency standard
- A1, A2: Basic proficiency
- B1: Paragraph level proficiency, indicates preference and opinion
- B2: Detailed terms, ideas, synthesis of multiple ideas
- C1: Proficient, different variety of English
- C2: Near-native proficiency, though often still with an accent
- ELL, ENL (English as a new language), ESL (English as a second language), EAL (English as an additional language), ELI (English Language Institute)
Support Structures
- Former Model: Credit-bearing, expensive, long duration (up to three academic years), often not leading to graduation
- New Model: Community-based, abbreviated pathway
- LI1: Basic English (A1/A2)
- LI2: Moving from B1 to B2 proficiency
- Specific courses like ESL 11613 for medical professions
- Free, does not incur credit costs, allows faster transition to credit-bearing coursework
Accommodations and Support Strategies
- Classroom and Tutoring: Cultivating multicultural linguistic awareness, reducing anxiety
- Assessment Modifications: Providing glossaries, customized dictionaries, additional time, simple language adjustments
- Balance between language proficiency practice and content mastery
Course Completion Timeline
- Moving from A1 to B2 proficiency can take as short as six months to two years
- Importance of iterative learning in LI1 and LI2
- Emphasis on academic support alongside coursework
Contact Information
- Extension: 6093 (on-campus), 498-6093 (off-campus)
- Email: Provided in the lecture
Conclusion
- Overview of upcoming work and modules
- Encouragement to reach out for questions and support