Even in beginning and
intermediate stages of
language development,
we want students to
use their thinking
ability and be
challenged!
Teachers should
help EL/BL to
exercise their
critical thinking
skills.
Differentiated
Scoring
Do they
understand the
concept?
EB/EL students draw the
water cycle instead of
answering questions from
the chapter. As long as
understanding of the
concept is there, the mode
of response should not
matter.
Do students
give
accurate
responses?
Does the response
demonstrate learning even
if the grammar, sentence
structure, or punctuation
is poor? If so, don't
discount student learning!
Do students
demonstrate
the
process?
In math, we have used
smaller numbers and
problems without
fractions as long as the
student is able to solve
the equation.
Scaffolding
(Scaffold or
bridge
instruction
to a lower
language
level by...
Projects
Hands-on projects can
easily be modified to
accommoate the
language level of your
learner since it is
individual work.
Drawings
Drawings allow
students to
demonstrate what
they know- they are
invaluable at all stages
of assessment.
Written
Instructions
These instructions
could be simpler
numbered steps or
pictures.
Graphic
Organizers
Graphic organizers
help students
understand a large
amount of
information ina
simpler context.
T-charts are simple
and universally
useful.
example
Extra
Time
It may need to be
decided beforehand
how much extra time
students are allowed
and for which
assignments/tests.
Shorter
passages or
responses
Paragraph instead of an
essay or a complete
sentence instead of a
paragraph. Student
readings can be shortened
or use graphic novels,
Use progress forms for
content areas
Is the student
participating in class
and attempting work?
What is their grade in the class?
What accommodations have been helpful? What
accommodations have not helped?
Are there any others ways that the EL teacher can support you with this student?
Performance Based Assessments (No
Single Correct Answer. Rubrics are
used to score.
Processes
Several Drafts of
Writing
Using the Scientific Method
Drawing Steps to Solve a
Problem
Products
Team Project
Posters
Digital
Products
Digital
Newspaper
Webpage
Powerpoint
Movie
Clip
Portfolios (Document student
growth over time)
Samples of Completed
Student Work
Students can select the work they
want to include and use it to
develop future goals.
Completed Forms
Teacher Descriptions of
Student Accomplishments
Formal Test
Data, Rating
Sheets, and
checklists
Videos/recordings
demonstrating
standard mastery
via role-play or oral
reports