Grade : Preschool – 5th grade
The Change Idea
In this change idea, teachers can help promote verbal comprehension by using loose parts. While this approach can be used for all students, we see that it can be especially useful for emerging multilingual or emerging verbal students. Sometimes when a student is learning English as another language, there may be occasions where certain sounds from primary, dominant language are used. Instead of correcting it explicitly, the change idea attempts to acknowledge and welcome the language input being used by the student. In addition, the teacher then offers the correct way to pronounce words.
Status of Change Idea : To be tested!
What is Recast(ing)?
Recast(ing) is when a teacher repeats what a student says with more detailed language or correction.
Process (example)
Teacher: Hello A, how was your weekend? What did you do?
Student A: Hi, maestra. I went to the zoo with my family. I saw my friend Sue. (The student pronounced Sue like zoo.)
Teacher: A, I am happy to hear you went to the zoo and saw our friend Sue. (recast)I am happy that you are using both languages. You are correct. In Spanish, the z and s make the same sound (ssss), but in English, the z (zzz) and s (sss) make different sounds.
Teacher: Let’s try again and share what you did this weekend.
*Student attempts again to distinguish sounds*
Predicted Outcomes
- Students will note the difference between their native language and the language being acquired.
- Students will gradually make changes in language pronunciation with more exposure and practice.
- Students will gain verbal processing skills when talking about their work.
Guided Questions
- How might you note where a student makes language errors to create thoughtful recast statements?
- How might you create conditions for students to explore and take risks with their language acquisition?
- How might you include some movement as part of the language acquisition experience?