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There are several essential components that make up a successful ESL learning environment.  These important elements work together to help an ELL (English language learner) improve their language acquisition. 

The ideal ESL classroom is inviting and print rich.  Posters, pictures, diagrams, charts, etc. should be displayed throughout the space.  Everyday items in the room should be labeled in English.  The room should be a safe haven for the ELL, where they can make mistakes without worrying about being ridiculed or judged.

The role of the teacher is essential to a successful ESL environment.  There must be mutual respect and trust between the instructor and the student for optimal learning to take place.  A teacher should be very aware of his/her body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice when meeting with an ELL.  A friendly first impression goes a long way to making a student feel comfortable when they may have no understanding of what is being said around them.  The ESL teacher should also work with the classroom teacher to provide differentiation and modifications for the ELL while they are working toward language proficiency.

A good ESL classroom will have many visual props that can be used to enhance teaching.  A teacher can purchase sets of pictures to teach various concepts in English or use magazines and books as a source of pictures.  Beginning students will enjoy drawing simple pictures so the teacher can label and display their work.  Puppets work very well with elementary children.  Many times a student will talk through a puppet before they are comfortable talking as themselves.  Toys such as animals, food and dishes, vehicles, and doll houses provide opportunities to teach everyday vocabulary and conversational skills.

A library of picture books at various levels is essential for teaching the ELL.  Many students are non-verbal at the beginning stage of language acquisition.  Sharing the story and illustrations in a picture book will get their attention and begin to build their receptive language.  Read the same book several times until the student can anticipate words in the story.  When their vocabulary is sufficient, have them tell the story by looking at the illustrations.  Also try to get books about an ELL’s home country so they can be the expert and share their knowledge using the illustrations.  The classroom library should also include books on tape that can be used by individual students.

An extensive collection of games is useful for the ESL classroom. Language based games can be modified for limited English speakers.  Traditional board games are good for teaching counting up and back.  Colors can also be easily taught through the use of games.  Students do their best learning when they are engaged and having fun.

A successful ESL classroom is one where students are happily immersed in English while participating in activities and projects which will strengthen their language skills.

Learn more about this author, Linda Haver.
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