Arts
1 out of every 10 students in the United States is an English Language Learner. ELL students face unique and often overwhelming challenges, but the art classroom is the perfect place for them to thrive. Art is a universal language and can become a vital touchpoint and creative outlet for ELL students. When we give all of our students opportunities to look at and connect with art from their home countries, we give them the chance to use prior knowledge and open up the world for our entire class. Classroom art discussions where there are no right or wrong answers give our ELL students chances to speak up without fear—giving them the perfect opportunity to gain confidence in their communication skills. Positive educational experiences in the art classroom can ease some of the frustration they may feel in other subjects, and we all know the emotional relief that is possible through the creation of art.While ELL students are busy learning a new language, mastering academic content, and negotiating new social and cultural contexts, they deserve educational experiences that are fun, connected, and special. In the latest episode of the podcast, I share the story of the artwork that made my 7th graders cheer and talk about the importance of art in the education of English Language Learners.