xii Westward Expansion: Supplemental Guide | Preface
Language
Development Stage
Comprehension
and Production
Accommodations and
Support Strategies
Entering • Produces little or no English
- Responds in nonverbal ways
- Has a minimal receptive
vocabulary in English- Use predictable phrases for set routines
- Use manipulatives, visuals, realia, props
- Use gestures (e.g., point, nod) to indicate
comprehension - Use lessons that build receptive and productive
vocabulary, using illustrated pre-taught words - Use pre-taught words to complete sentence
starters - Use simply stated questions that require simple
nonverbal responses (e.g., “Show me... ,” “Circle
the... ”) - Use normal intonation, emphasize key words, and
frequent checks for understanding - Model oral language and practice formulaic
expressions - Pair with another ELL who is more advanced in
oral language skills for activities and discussions
focused on the English language - Pair with same-language peers for activities and
discussions focused on content
Emerging
(Beginner)
- Responds with basic phrases
- Includes frequent, long
pauses when speaking - Has basic level of English
vocabulary (common words
and phrases) - Use repetition, gestures, and visual aids to facilitate
comprehension and students’ responses - Use manipulatives, visuals, realia, props
- Use small-group activities
- Use lessons that expand receptive and expressive
vocabulary, especially Tier 2 vocabulary - Use illustrated core vocabulary words
- Use pre-identified words to complete cloze
sentences - Use increasingly more difficult question types as
students’ receptive and expressive language skills
improve: - Yes/no questions
- Either/or questions
- Questions that require short answers
- Open-ended questions to encourage expressive
responses - Allow for longer processing time and for
participation to be voluntary - Pair with another ELL who is more advanced in
oral language skills for activities and discussions
focused on the English language - Pair with same-language peers for activities and
discussions focused on content