Equipping ELLs

Do your ELL students struggle with reading comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency—leaving you unsure how to support them? In this episode of the Equipping ELLs Podcast, Beth Vaucher tackles one of the toughest challenges for English learners: developing strong reading skills. As part of our series on supporting ELLs, Beth shares why reading is not just about decoding words, but about building comprehension, vocabulary, and academic language. You'll learn how to identify exactly where your students are on their reading journey and how to meet them with the right support.Beth breaks down five simple, high-impact reading routines that work for all levels, including pre-reading vocabulary previews, guided annotation, interactive read-alouds, visual story mapping, and daily fluency practice. These strategies will help your ELLs overcome common obstacles like limited background knowledge and unfamiliar phonics patterns while gaining confidence as readers. Beth also explains why patience, consistent routines, and targeted instruction are essential to help ELLs thrive.By the end of this episode, you’ll have practical tools to make your reading lessons more effective, engaging, and accessible. Plus, don’t miss the free set of printable reading routines at inspiringyounglearners.com/reading to easily implement these strategies in your classroom. If you’re ready to stop feeling stuck and start seeing growth in your ELLs’ reading skills, this episode is for you.Resources and LinksGet your Free Reading Activities Cards Download⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

Are your ELL students staying silent during class discussions no matter how much you encourage them to participate?After laying the groundwork with listening in our previous episode, today’s spotlight is on the speaking domain—arguably one of the most intimidating and vulnerable areas for ELL students.Speaking out loud in a new language can bring up fears of making mistakes, mispronunciations, and the anxiety of being judged by peers. But with the right classroom environment and simple, effective routines, we can remove those barriers and help our ELLs become confident communicators. In this episode, Beth shares five practical speaking routines you can implement immediately to foster student participation, lower the affective filter, and create natural opportunities for language output—all without adding more work to your plate.We also take a deep dive into oracy—a crucial, often overlooked skill that benefits not just multilingual learners, but all students. Beth explains how oracy encompasses physical, linguistic, cognitive, and social-emotional skills and why developing strong communication habits is essential for academic success and real-world readiness.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ Why speaking is the next critical step after listening for language development.✔️ The top barriers ELLs face when it comes to speaking, and how to remove them.✔️ How to create safe, low-pressure environments that encourage risk-taking and participation.✔️ The power of oracy and why communication skills must be a classroom priority.✔️ Five simple and fun speaking routines that boost confidence and fluency.Beth also shares bonus ideas for pre-speaking, active-speaking, and post-speaking routines like vocabulary brainstorms, talking chips, Four Corners, partner interviews, and self-assessments to keep your students engaged and growing.If you're ready to transform your classroom into a space where ELLs feel excited and empowered to speak, this episode is packed with actionable strategies you can start using tomorrow!Links and ResourcesGet your Free Speaking Activities Cards DownloadThe Oracy Skills Framework from Oracy CambridgeSentence Stems Resource⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

Have you ever wondered why your ELL students struggle with speaking, reading, or writing? The answer often comes down to one foundational skill: listening. In this episode, Beth Vaucher explores why listening is the gateway to all language learning, what makes it so challenging for English Language Learners, and—most importantly—five simple and effective routines you can implement right away to help your students strengthen their listening skills.Listening is often the most difficult skill for ELLs because they are processing a new language in real time, surrounded by unfamiliar vocabulary and fast-paced speech. Without strong listening skills, students struggle to understand directions, participate in classroom discussions, and make sense of academic content. This episode breaks down the biggest barriers to listening comprehension and provides actionable strategies you can use immediately.If you’re looking for ready-to-use listening activities that seamlessly fit into your lessons, the Equipping ELLs Membership provides over 350 resources designed to support your students’ language development. With a dedicated section on listening activities, you’ll have access to daily warm-ups, independent practice, and scaffolded routines to build listening comprehension. Try implementing one or two of these routines in your classroom this week, and let us know how they work for your students. You can share your experience by tagging @equippingELLs on Instagram or sending us an email at hello@equippingells.com. We’d love to hear from you!Next week, we’ll continue our series on language skills by focusing on speaking. We’ll discuss why speaking is the next critical step in language development and share five practical routines to help your ELLs build confidence and fluency.Links and Resources:Get your Free Listening Activities Cards Download⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

Dive into the world of language acquisition and discover how to enhance English Language Learners' skills with simple routines. Explore the interconnectedness of listening, speaking, reading, and writing while uncovering effective strategies for assessment. Learn why the final months of the school year are vital for language growth and get practical tips to make teaching less overwhelming. Plus, hear personal insights that underscore the importance of listening in language learning – all to support your students’ success!

Did you know that supporting your students' growth goes far beyond bilingualism and language itself?In this episode of Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher welcomes Gabby Montenegro Rivera, a bilingual and bicultural educator with a powerful personal story. Gabby, who grew up in Panama with Colombian and Panamanian roots, shares her journey of embracing both Latin and American cultures, highlighting the challenges and advantages of being bicultural.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How early exposure to English shaped Gabby’s academic and personal growthThe difference between bilingualism and biculturalism, and why both matterThe cultural barriers multilingual learners face in educationHow to foster a sense of belonging for bicultural students in the classroomThe emotional impact of living between two cultures, and what “home” really meansAs an educator, understanding the cultural experiences of multilingual learners is key to helping them succeed. Gabby shares eye-opening insights on the importance of cultural fluency, her personal struggles with writing in English despite being fluent, and why teachers should actively create spaces where students can embrace both their linguistic and cultural identities.Plus, Gabby dives into how language influences personality and how educators can bridge cultural gaps in the classroom.Whether you're a teacher, student, or someone passionate about cultural identity, this episode is filled with practical strategies and inspiring takeaways.🎧 Tune in now and learn how to support bicultural students in and beyond the classroom!RESOURCES AND LINKS:⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

Have you been told that your students' grades are all that matters as indicators of their success? They can figure out the rest on their own?In this eye-opening episode of Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher sits down with the incredible Pamela Broussard, a veteran educator with over 30 years of experience working with multilingual learners, refugees, and students in high-need communities. Together, they dismantle the myth that multilingual learners will simply "figure things out" on their own. Instead, Pamela highlights the critical importance of social and cultural capital in ensuring these students don’t just graduate but thrive beyond high school, whether in college, careers, or their communities.Pamela shares actionable strategies that educators, schools, and families can implement at every stage of a student’s journey, from elementary school to high school graduation. You’ll learn:✅ Why “school + something else” is the key to scholarship opportunities and career success✅ How to bridge the gap between ELLs and native English-speaking peers✅ Ways to introduce leadership opportunities, even for students with limited English proficiency✅ The role of extracurricular activities in breaking cycles of poverty and opening doors✅ How schools can intentionally create cross-cultural relationshipsPamela also offers practical solutions for making sure ELLs gain access to scholarships, service hours, and leadership roles that set them apart in college and career applications. Plus, she reveals why starting in elementary and middle school is crucial for long-term success.This episode is packed with real-life success stories, expert advice, and a fresh perspective on how we can better serve multilingual students.RESOURCES AND LINKS:Leading ELLs Facebook GroupVisit Pamela's Website for More Info and Resources⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

In this insightful discussion, Dr. Margo Gottlieb, co-founder of WIDA, and Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld, a professor of TESOL, explore transformative assessment strategies for multilingual learners. They challenge traditional testing methods, advocating for collaborative and ongoing assessments that reflect true student abilities. The duo emphasizes the power of self-reflection and student voice in learning, sharing practical strategies that foster inclusivity. Their insights promise to empower educators and enhance the educational experiences of English Language Learners.

In this transformative episode of the Equipping ELLs podcast, host Beth Vaucher is joined by the incredible Valentina Gonzalez, a former English Language Learner (ELL), educational consultant, and passionate advocate for multilingual students. Together, they tackle the widespread misconception that ELL students are starting from scratch in their educational journey. Valentina shares her personal experiences, professional insights, and actionable strategies to challenge this narrative and elevate the role of linguistic and cultural assets in education.Listeners will discover why labeling ESOL as an "intervention" undermines the potential of ELL students and how educators can shift their mindsets to foster inclusive, affirming learning environments. Valentina delves into practical, low-prep, high-impact strategies for supporting language development, such as leveraging cross-linguistic connections, integrating visuals, and providing meaningful wait time. She also shares her own journey as an ELL, the challenges of navigating an education system that often prioritizes assimilation, and her fight to ensure linguistic diversity is celebrated, not erased.Whether you're an educator, administrator, or advocate, this episode is packed with inspiration and tools to create classrooms that honor the unique strengths of multilingual learners. Plus, Valentina shares exciting updates about her upcoming illustrated guide, Welcome to Teaching Multilingual Learners, co-authored with Doug Fisher and Nancy Frey. Don’t miss this enriching conversation that will leave you motivated to rethink how you support ELL students in your schools.Key Highlights:The importance of seeing ESOL as an asset, not an intervention.Strategies for designing culturally inclusive classrooms.Why embracing linguistic diversity benefits all learners.How administrators can lead change to support ELL students.Valentina’s inspiring personal story and her advocacy for multilingual learners.ResourcesVisit Valentina's BlogPurchase one of Valentina's BooksConnect with Valentina on Instagram⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

In this episode of the Equipping ELLs podcast, host Beth Vaucher dives into dismantling misconceptions about English Language Learners (ELLs) with the help of Dr. Lillian Ardell. A bilingual education coach, keynote speaker, and advocate for multilingual equity, Dr. Ardell sheds light on the pervasive "monolingual bias" in education. Through real-life stories, she illustrates how this bias impacts teachers’ expectations and instructional strategies. Dr. Ardell passionately outlines her framework for teacher advocacy, emphasizing linguistic justice, culturally sustaining pedagogy, and actionable steps to support ELLs effectively.Listeners will hear how assimilation narratives harm multilingual students and why embracing their linguistic and cultural identities fosters stronger learning outcomes. From practical disruptors to engaging students in meaningful ways, this episode offers tools for educators to create more inclusive and joyful classrooms. Dr. Ardell also provides strategies for addressing policy-driven pressures and finding allies in the fight for equity. Tune in to learn how to reframe approaches, amplify advocacy, and sustain motivation in challenging environments. Don’t miss this empowering conversation and a sneak peek at Dr. Ardell’s upcoming book, "Disrupting the Monolingual Bias."ResourcesConnect with Dr. Ardell on InstagramGet More Info on Dr. Ardell's book Disrupting the Monolingual Bias⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store

Are misconceptions and biases about multilingual learners holding your students back from reaching their full potential?Welcome to the Equipping ELLs podcast, your essential guide to supporting multilingual learners and fostering inclusive classrooms. Hosted by Beth Vaucher, founder of Inspiring Young Learners, this episode kicks off 2025 with exciting updates and a powerful new direction. This year, Equipping ELLs expands to YouTube, bringing engaging video content alongside the podcast you know and love.Beth’s decade of experience teaching both nationally and internationally equips her with insights that help educators navigate the unique challenges of teaching English Language Learners (ELLs). In this episode, Beth introduces a groundbreaking four-part series designed to dismantle the persistent misconceptions surrounding ELLs.The series features renowned experts, including Dr. Lillian Ardell, who leads a compelling conversation about overcoming monolingual biases. Educators Margo Gottlieb and Andrea Honningsfield offer invaluable strategies for collaborative assessments that genuinely reflect ELL progress. Valentina Gonzalez shares insights on engagement and inclusion, while Pamela Broussard delivers practical tools to cultivate equitable classrooms for all students.Listeners can expect actionable insights, bridging the gap between educational theory and classroom practice. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just beginning your journey with ELLs, this series offers practical strategies to elevate your teaching and empower your students.Tune in weekly for episodes packed with tips you can implement immediately. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow us on YouTube, and join the mission to transform classrooms and advocate for multilingual learners.Resources⁠⁠⁠Join the Equipping ELLs Membership Shop our TpT Store