Academic Language in Diverse Classrooms: Mathematics, Grades K–2

Book excerpt: Help your students unlock important mathematical concepts If youve ever watched a student struggle with learning math concepts, you know that academic English can sometimes create stumbling blocks to understanding. To grasp complicated concepts, build skills, and demonstrate achievement, students need to master academic language in math. But how do you teach academic language when youre so busy teaching math? With this guide, youll build a curricular framework that integrates language and cultural supports with math content during lesson planning, implementation, and reflection. Youll learn to Understand the role of language within the math principles of the Common Core Identify potential obstacles to understanding Incorporate academic language into standards-referenced unit targets and lesson objectives Collaborate with ELL specialists to help students access the curriculum Each grade-specific chapter models the types of interactions and learning experiences that help students master both math content and academic language. This essential book shows you why mastery of academic language is the key to students academic success.