What instructional accommodation is recommended to support an English learner (EL) in the classroom?

Extending wait time for responses is vital in supporting English learners (ELs) in the classroom. When teachers provide additional time for ELs to process information and formulate their responses, it acknowledges the extra cognitive load these students may experience due to language barriers. This strategy encourages participation and allows learners to engage more fully with the material, ultimately leading to improved comprehension and confidence in their language abilities.

Providing this extra time gives ELs the opportunity to translate their thoughts and language from their primary language into English, resulting in more thoughtful and complete responses. It also creates a supportive classroom environment where students feel valued and encouraged to share their ideas without the stress of needing to respond immediately. In turn, this practice can enhance their language development and make them more active participants in class discussions.