Four Keys for School Success for Elementary English Learners.

Large numbers of students in English-speaking countries enter elementary schools speaking little or no English. A review of the research in second language acquisition and effective schooling reveals widespread agreement on the principles that underlie successful programs for these students. However, several factors have limited the implementation of such programs. This chapter reviews the theory and research that supports programs that lead to academic success for English learners. The factors that prevent the development of successful programs are then considered. These include an emphasis on standards and testing, a lack of primary language support, a failure to distinguish types of English learners, and a shortage of teachers prepared to work with English learners. Four keys for academic success for English learners are presented: engage students in challenging, theme-based curriculum to develop academic concepts; draw on students' background—their experiences, cultures, and languages; organize collaborative activities and scaffold instruction to build students' academic English proficiency; and create confident students who value school and value themselves as learners. Each key is explained and illustrated. A curriculum based on these keys provides elementary English learners with the greatest likelihood of academic success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]