
Equipping ELLs
Equipping ELLs is a podcast for ESL specialists and homeroom teachers who are looking for effective and engaging ways to support their English Language Learners without adding to their endless to-do list. Each week you’ll hear tips, strategies, and inspirational stories that will empower you to better reach your ELL students, equip them with life-long skills, and strengthen relationships with colleagues and parents. Your host, Beth Vaucher, is an ESL certified homeroom teacher with over 10 years of experience teaching in the US and internationally. Learn more at www.inspiringyounglearners.com.
Latest episodes

Sep 27, 2024 • 19min
146. A Step-by-Step Approach to Writing Effective Language Objectives for ELLs
Struggling to write clear and effective language objectives for your ELL students?In this episode of Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher breaks down a step-by-step approach to crafting purposeful language objectives that align with your content goals. Using the easy-to-remember L.E.A.P. method, you’ll learn how to write objectives that target specific language skills like speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Beth also shares practical ChatGPT prompts to help you quickly turn any content objective into a focused language objective. Tune in for tips on creating language objectives that support academic success and meet your students' diverse language needs.Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT Store[FREEBIE] ChatGPT Prompts for Writing Language Objectives[FREEBIE] Language Forms & Functions WorksheetListen to ep. 39: How to Lesson Plan for ELLs Using Language Forms and Functions

Sep 20, 2024 • 17min
145. Mastering ELL Instruction: The 'What' in Our 4-Step Framework
As educators, making the most of our limited time with ELL students is crucial. But what exactly should you be teaching English language learners to ensure effective learning outcomes?In this episode of Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher provides essential guidance for educators on determining what to teach their ELLs. This episode builds on previous discussions about understanding your students and the Silent Period, focusing on how to choose appropriate lessons based on students' backgrounds and proficiency levels. We explore four key types of lessons—Foundational English, Content-Focused with Scaffolds, Domain-Specific Instruction, and Skill-Specific Lessons—each tailored to different learning needs and stages. Listeners will gain practical tips for aligning instruction with student needs, making informed teaching decisions, and creating a supportive learning environment. Tune in to enhance your ELL teaching strategies, to better support your students' academic growth, and to make the most of your instructional and planning time.Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT Store

Sep 13, 2024 • 17min
144. Helping Newcomer ELLs Find Their Voice: Overcoming the Silent Period
Let's talk about the Silent Period and how you can help your ELL students through it.In this episode of Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher guides you through a critical phase of language acquisition known as the Silent Period, a common experience for your newcomer English language learners. You'll discover why this phase happens, how it impacts your students' language development, and most importantly, practical strategies to help your ELLs move beyond the Silent Period and find their voice in your classroom. From creating a welcoming environment to using visuals, predictable routines, and low-pressure speaking opportunities, this episode equips you with actionable tips to support your students' language journey and boost their confidence in speaking English.Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT Store

Sep 6, 2024 • 22min
143. Mastering ELL Instruction: The 'Who' in Our 4-Step Framework
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenge of connecting with your English language learners?In this episode of Equipping ELLs, we kick off a four-part series that provides a clear, actionable framework to help you support your ELL students with confidence. Today, we dive into the first step: understanding who your ELL students are. From uncovering their unique backgrounds and cultural influences to building strong connections, this episode will guide you in asking the right questions to truly get to know your students. Join us as we explore practical strategies and activities tailored to different language proficiency levels, setting you up for a successful school year.Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT Store

Aug 30, 2024 • 31min
142. Empowering General Ed Teachers: Practical Tips to Support ELLs with Risa Woods
How can homeroom teachers effectively support multilingual learners using best practices?In this enlightening episode of the Equipping ELLs podcast, we dive into essential tips for homeroom teachers to prepare their classrooms, specifically tailored for those teaching English Language Learners. We welcome to the show Risa Woods, who shares practical strategies that will help you create an inclusive and effective learning space for all students. Discover how to organize materials, incorporate visuals, and implement routines that support the unique needs of ELLs. This episode is packed with actionable advice to ensure you're ready to empower all students, fostering success from day one.Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT StoreConnect with Risa

Aug 23, 2024 • 42min
141. Equitable Grading Strategies for ELLs with Guest, Esperanza "Macky" Wickert
How do I implement equitable grading practices for my English language learners?In this episode of Equipping ELLs, we are joined by special guest Esperanza 'Macky' Wickert, an expert in the field, who shares invaluable insights and practical strategies for fair and effective assessment. Discover how to navigate common challenges, ensure accurate representation of your students' abilities, and promote a more inclusive learning environment. Tune in for actionable tips and real-life examples that will help you transform your grading practices and better support your ELL students!Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT StoreLearn more about HOPE Educational Consulting ServicesConnect with Macky on LinkedIn

Aug 16, 2024 • 38min
140. Enhancing ELL Education: Best Practices and Strategies with Guest Paloma Cortes-Goodwyn
Let's hear what a teacher of 18 years wishes she had known earlier in her ELL teaching journey!Join host Beth Vaucher on Equipping ELLs as she welcomes Paloma Cortes-Goodwyn, a dedicated educator with loads of experience in various teaching roles. In this lighthearted, yet wisdom-packed conversation, Paloma shares 5 things she wishes she would have known earlier in her teaching journey. She delves into best practices and essential strategies for building better ELL programs, such as honoring students' cultural identities, effectively engaging families, and leveraging translation tools and picture prompts to boost student confidence. Learn practical tips on understanding language acquisition levels and the importance of patience and consistency in teaching English language learners. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your ELL teaching practices with expert insights from Paloma Cortes-Goodwyn.Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT Store

Aug 9, 2024 • 35min
139. Collaboration in ELL Classrooms: Expert Tips from Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld
Struggling to foster effective collaboration in your ELL classroom? In this episode of Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher sits down with renowned expert Dr. Andrea Honigsfeld to explore the transformative power of collaboration among teachers. Discover practical strategies for co-teaching, building professional learning communities, and differentiating instruction to meet the diverse needs of your English language learners. Tune in for actionable tips and inspiring insights that will help you create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for your ELL students.Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs Membership (We have everything you need for the school year!)Shop our TpT StoreFind more from Dr. Andrea HonigsfeldGet your copy of Growing Language & Literacy: Strategies for English LearnersGet your copy of Collaborating for English Learners: A Foundational Guide to Integrated Practices

Aug 2, 2024 • 28min
138. Essential Organization Tips for Teachers: An Interview with Kristen Donegan
In this episode of Equipping ELLs, we sit down with Kristen Donegan of Easy Teaching Tools to discuss essential organizational strategies for teachers at the start of the school year.Kristen shares her personal journey from feeling overwhelmed and experiencing burnout to implementing effective systems that transformed her work life. Learn practical tips like the three-drawer system, respecting the timer, and creating designated spaces for classroom materials. Discover how these techniques can help you stay organized, reduce stress, and create a more efficient and enjoyable teaching environment. Tune in for actionable advice to kickstart your school year on the right foot!Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT StoreCheck out Easy Teaching ToolsFollow Kristen on InstagramJoin the Organized Teacher Club

Jul 26, 2024 • 20min
137. Back to School Ready: The Power of Teacher Connections in ELL Education
Teachers who connect and collaborate with colleagues do better.In the final episode of our "Back to School Ready" series on Equipping ELLs, host Beth Vaucher explores the vital importance of building connections with fellow teachers to enhance your teaching experience and support your professional growth. Whether you're a new teacher or have years of experience, establishing strong relationships with your colleagues can significantly impact your effectiveness and job satisfaction. Beth shares practical strategies for fostering these connections, including joining teacher study groups, participating in professional learning communities, engaging in mentorship programs, and leveraging online communities and resources. Tune in to discover how these collaborative efforts can create a supportive network, improve your teaching practices, and ultimately enriching the educational experience for your English language learners.Resources: Join the Equipping ELLs MembershipShop our TpT StoreCheck out our new Pathways to Proficiency PD PlatformRegister for our webinar: Cut Your Planning Time in Half!