Use the connections between science inquiry and SDAIE. Science classes are inquiry classrooms.
Learner-centered environments in Science are key to ELLs because it’s where teachers build new learning on knowledge, skills, attitudes, and beliefs that students bring to the classroom.
Four areas of Science Language: vocabulary, syntax, semantics and discourse.
Science discovery: hypothesis, data, ideas and conclusions.
Content: Common Themes
Organizing instruction around broad themes put science in comprehensible context.
Connections: Using Everyday Examples
Science become relevant to students through the use of simple everyday examples, things ELLs can relate to. Use the information from students to create diagrams and charts that can explain classification and scientific process.
The KWL strategy is particularly applicable for science.
Comprehensibility: Modeling
It’s helpful for students to video tape teacher lectures and review. Teachers models outlining techniques for students. Students use whatever strategies work for them, including native language. Then, notes are compared. This helps students learn to comprehend lectures and take notes.
Interaction: Talking about Lesson Content
Science investigation allows students to talk about science concepts. The scientific process allows ELLs to interact with class members, the teacher and maybe even experts.
