English Language Development (ELD) in elementary school is a program designed to help students who are learning English as an additional language. Here’s what parents should know about it:
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Focus on English Proficiency: ELD classrooms focus on teaching students how to pronounce the sound system of English, the structure and forms of words in English, the rules of ordering English words in sentences, English vocabulary, and how to use English in different situations and contexts1.
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Reading Skills: Throughout the elementary years, kids deepen their ability to read. They study sight words, which are words that don’t fit conventional spelling patterns, and memorize spelling and vocabulary lists. Elementary students learn punctuation and syntax (the proper order of words), the parts of speech, and verb tenses2.
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Parental Involvement: Research points to parents and caretakers as invaluable stakeholders in students’ academic achievement3. Parents can take an active role in helping their child learn to organize his or her study time, monitor engagement, limit distractions, build consistency, and celebrate periods of concentration3. They can also set aside a quiet place for their child to learn and read at home, and be available to answer questions.
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Resources for Parents: Parents should utilize school-based technological and translation resources, including bilingual dictionaries, home anchor charts, and web-based language translation applications, if needed3. They should also take time to discuss school matters with their child, asking questions about the school day: friends, concepts learned, struggles and discomforts, successes and achievements.
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Remember, the goal of ELD is to help students become proficient in English and succeed acadically. As a parent, your involvement and support can make a significant difference in your child’s learning journey.