Literacy-Building Interview Activities for English Language Learners: Instant Student-to-Student Interviews That Develop Skills in Listening, . the Whole Class (Best Practices in Action)

A veteran bilingual teacher shares her classroom-proven approach for helping second language learners master English. Using these simple, scripted interviews and surveys on high-interest topics, ELLs interact with classmates to practice language skills in a meaningful context. Leveled for varying proficiencies, the interviews and surveys offer predictable and repetitive formats that support learners. Opportunities for whole-class participation are built into the lessons and activities, helping ELLs feel part of the classroom community, and enabling all students to strengthen skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. For use with Grades 2-5.

Born and raised in Brazil of American parents, Katherine Maitland grew up

with two languages and two cultures. Early on, she became interested in

issues related to acculturation and second language acquisition, leading her

to earn bilingual certification and a Master's degree in Teaching English to

Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). She has 25 years of experience teaching elementary students in ESL and bilingual settings. Katherine has written a variety of materials for English language learners, as well as educational materials for ESL teachers. Her publications include Adding English: Helping ESL Learners Succeed and Poetry Power ESL (co-author).