Home and School Connections
Part of an asset-based approach to working with ELLs is recognizing the cultural and linguistic resources they possess. The asset-based approach contrasts with the deficit-based model that once dominated how many viewed second language learners. As schools and educators, we can help close the inequity gap faced by our diverse student population by exhibiting asset-based behaviors and expectations, focusing on viewing cultural and linguistic differences as assets and not deficits.
You have been asked to create a video presentation for the administrative team of your school about leveraging home and school connections to support English language learning in your content area. Record a 3-5-minute video that discusses the following:
Cultural influences, cultural competence, and social-emotional needs of ELLs in teaching and learning
Intentional strategies for family and community engagement that support and highlight the assets of home language, communication, family involvement, and culture to build family, community, and school partnerships
Inclusive school and classroom environment taking into consideration language acquisition and key environmental factors such as family, community practices, and the role of culture in student learning
The role that family and community practices have in influencing language learning
Support your video with 2-3 scholarly resources.
Remember that video and audio quality are important and should be taken into consideration. Ensure your video is filmed with sufficient lighting and that the volume is adequate for viewers to hear. Intonation, expression, proper speech, and professional attire are expected.
Use an online video platform such as Loom, YouTube, or Vimeo to upload your completed video. Ensure that others can access and view your linked video prior to submitting the assignment. If you upload your video to YouTube, select the “unlisted” option.
Sample Solution
Introduction: Hello everyone! My name is [name] and I am a [title] at [school]. Today I'm here to talk to you about leveraging home and school connections in order to support English language learning in our content area. As educators, it's important that we understand the cultural influences, social-emotional needs,
family involvement, and other key factors that contribute to successful language acquisition. In this video presentation I will be discussing intentional strategies for family and community engagement, an inclusive environment based on culture considerations, as well as the role of family practices in influencing language development.
Cultural Influences:
It is important for teachers working with English Language Learners (ELLs) to understand the value of their student’s home cultures and backgrounds when teaching their classes (Branger & Camba-Kelsay., 2019). Exposure to different cultures enriches students' lives by creating understanding among peers from different backgrounds (Garza & Bunch., 2018). This understanding can help create an inclusive classroom environment where diverse perspectives are celebrated rather than minimized or ignored. Additionally, understanding cultural influences can also aid in developing effective instructional strategies when teaching ELLs (Branger & Camba-Kelsay., 2019). It is essential that teachers recognize the influence of culture on students’ academic performance so they can better meet their needs inside and outside of the classroom.
Social-Emotional Needs:
Research has shown that providing ELLs with an emotionally supportive school climate helps foster positive attitudes toward Schooling (Plattner et al., 2020). Creating a welcoming environment gives these students a sense of belonging which increases self-confidence while also providing them with access to resources like peer support networks which promote academic success (Gonzales et al., 2020). Furthermore, establishing strong relationships between families and schools through meaningful communication allows parents/guardians to become more involved in their children’s education which further supports student achievements (Baker et al., 2017 ). By taking into account both emotional wellbeing as well as social acceptance within classrooms it becomes easier for ELLs adjust quickly while feeling supported by educators.
Family Involvement:
Language proficiency forms its basis on how much exposure learners get to hearing target language spoken around them; this is especially true for young children who are naturally linguistically malleable allowing them pick up new languages easily if exposed early enough over extended periods of time(Pavlenko & Blackledge,, 2016). To ensure optimal language acquisition it is therefore essential for families invest time communicating with learners using target language consistently throughout day activities such as during meals ,transportation etc.(Liang et al,. 2012 ). Research has even gone ahead establish correlation between parent involvement programs schools come up with encouraging participation from families have resulted increased parental involvement higher levels achievement ELLS .(Heisey & Steinberg 2021) .In addition ,increased parent – teacher communication encourages collaboration between home school leading improved chances Student Success .
Inclusive Environment :
To effectively create an conducive learning L2 environments must be designed give equal focus cultural background linguistic capital each individual learner rather than just emphasizing mastering target language alone ;this links directly asset approach instead deficit previously used view second learners(Kimura,, 2014 ) . Teachers should strive actively seek out incorporate culturally relevant materials lessons topics enable Students identify personal strengths gain appreciation educational opportunities available them also open door share experiences life stories allow feel comfortable enough participate class discussions(Rios–Aguilar et al 2015) All being said ,culturally responsive instruction provides platform give voice marginalized communities allows address inequalities existed past future generations benefit consequently .
Conclusion :
I hope after watching my video presentation you have learned about some ways we can leverage home connections at our school so we can best support English Language Learning here at [school]. Remember that effective family engagement leads us one step closer towards creating an equitable learning environment where all individuals regardless of culture or background receive quality education Thus by recognizing assets not deficits far reaching impact reaps huge rewards benefiting many generations follow thanks viewing enjoy rest your day