In episode 37, we continue with the topic of mixed proficiency classrooms. Last week I talked about setting up your mixed proficiency class for success. Today i will discuss some of the activities that have worked well in these types of classes for me.All students need to work on vocabulary development and all four language domains. So, what activities work well for Mixed Proficiency classes? I will share 3 of my favorites.
First is choice boards. Choice boards ask students to answer questions or complete activities, but students get to choose a determined number of the options to work on in the order they choose. My choice boards usually have fewer activities, usually 5, and students get to choose any 4. Choice Boards in my mixed proficiency class are focused on Vocabulary, Writing,
The next activity I love for a mixed proficiency class is a simple “Do Now” question or task for students to do as soon as they walk in. These questions are a low risk way to get all students engaged and set the tone for my ESL class as a place where work gets done right away. Often, my Do Now questions will involve the Habits of Mind, which are on a poster in my classroom for students to reference.
Finally, I share about projects. When asked what they want to improve on over the year, my mixed proficiency students said they wanted to work on their speaking and presentations. Incorporating projects into my class allows students to work toward that goal while practicing with their groups in all 4 language domains.
What you will hear about activities for your mixed proficiency class:
- How I use choice boards in my classroom and why they work so well in mixed proficiency classrooms
- The way I use Do Nows problems and my Habits of Mind Poster in mixed proficiency rooms to set the tone for the class and get students working right away.
- Projects that address all of the language domains.
Resources
As mentioned in the episode, I am linking some useful resources!
- The ESL Teaching Roadmap – membership community for middle and high school ESL/ELL teachers. As a thank you for listening, use code ESLPODCAST for 10% off when you join.
- 25 Authentic Speaking Activities for Your ESL Classroom
- Simply Ieva ESL Teachers Pay Teachers Store
- Teachable Platform – Courses and Workshops
- Follow me on Instagram
- Join the Simply Ieva Facebook Group
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