Imagine stepping into a classroom where you don't fully understand the language being spoken. For many second language learners, this scenario is a daily reality. They often face unique challenges that require tailored strategies to make sure they’re successful. 

The number of English language learners worldwide alone is 1.5 billion (to say nothing of students learning other languages as a second language!)- and the number is growing by the day. Although English is the most commonly learned language, other popular choices are Mandarin Chinese, Spanish (the second most common after English), French, Japanese, Arabic, and German.

It’s not just about succeeding in the classroom, either. While many students learn another language as a matter of necessity - to get good grades or get by in their day to day lives - countless others are finding that it helps in all walks of life.

And there’s lots you can do to help. Learning a new language is great for kids’ self esteem, with a study by Rosetta Stone showing that 89% of language learners reported increased self-confidence as a result.

In this post, we'll explore 12 practical and effective strategies for supporting second language learners in any classroom.

12 Strategies for Supporting Second Language Learners

Supporting second language learners in the classroom can be a rewarding - yet challenging - task for educators.

These students bring diverse cultural perspectives and rich linguistic backgrounds that can enrich the learning environment - but they need the right kind of support in order to do so.

1. Watch How You Speak

Being mindful of your speech is crucial when teaching second language learners. Start by taking a few pauses between sentences to give students time to process information.

Rephrasing idiomatic expressions can also help. For instance, instead of saying "break the ice," you might say "make everyone feel comfortable."

Clarifying cultural allusions is equally important. Explain references that might not be familiar to students from different backgrounds, like historical events or popular TV shows.

2. Be Clear About Your Expectations and Rules

Consistency is key. When a student turns in unsatisfactory work or submits an assignment late, apply your usual policies and explain the reasons. You need to make sure that all students understand that rules apply equally to everyone.

If you notice signs of plagiarism, such as sentences with varying levels of academic English, address them directly. For exams, discourage the use of electronic translators.

Instead, encourage students to ask questions if they don't understand exam words or concepts.

3. Rethink Your Questioning

Rethinking how you ask questions can make a big difference. Ask questions in a few different ways to check for understanding.

For example, if you ask, "What is the main idea of this paragraph?" you might rephrase it as, "Can you tell me the most important point in this section?"

Similarly, encourage volunteers, but also call on students by name, giving non-native speakers time to process questions.

Pair students up to discuss answers before sharing with the class, providing additional processing time and reducing anxiety.

The ultimate takeaway here? You’ve got to mix things up! They say that variety is the spice of life, and that’s great advice when you’re considering how to tailor your instruction to English language learners.

4. Use Visual Aids

Visual aids, like charts, diagrams, and images, are invaluable for second language learners.

But you should also go one step further than that - print clearly and provide written information about homework and assignments. Oral quizzes should also be projected or delivered in written form to make sure the material is comprehended.

5. Encourage Collaboration

Encourage students to sit next to peers from different cultures rather than clustering with those from their own background.

Distribute non-native speakers among groups with native English speakers. Design group tasks that require active participation from each member. Monitor groups to make sure that all students, especially non-native speakers, are included and understood.

6. Consider Alternative Learning Styles

Recognize that students have different learning styles. Some may benefit from visual aids, while others may prefer hands-on activities. Incorporate a variety of teaching methods to cater to these diverse needs.

For example, use interactive whiteboards, group discussions, and practical demonstrations to engage all learners.

7. Think About Culture-Specific Writing and Speaking Conventions

Cultural differences can affect how students write and speak, and being aware of (and reflecting) these conventions for your teaching can be incredibly supportive.

For example, in China, students may not be accustomed to spelling out all details, while in Turkey, discussing personal experiences in class might be seen as disrespectful. Being aware of these conventions can help you better understand and support your students.

8. Give Extra Time

Providing extra time for assignments and tests can be a simple yet effective way to support second language learners. This allows them to process information and formulate their responses more thoroughly.

9. Use Rubrics

Rubrics provide clear expectations and criteria for assignments, helping students understand what is required. They also offer a consistent and fair way to grade work. Share rubrics with students before they start working on an assignment to set clear guidelines.

10. Provide Low-Stakes Assignments

If you want to encourage a growth mindset - and reduce anxiety of all students, including those who are native English speakers - you may want to take advantage of low-stakes assignments every now and then.

Low-stakes assignments, like group projects, can help build confidence and skills without the pressure of high grades. You can use these assignments to provide constructive feedback and encourage improvement.

11. Keep Discussions Focused

Keeping class discussions focused and on-topic helps second language learners follow along and participate. Use guiding questions and prompts to steer the conversation.

It’s easy to get off topic, especially when the conversation is headed in a productive direction, but these sorts of detours can be overwhelming for non-native speakers. Pause periodically to summarize key points periodically, which should help reinforce understanding.

12. Use Language Learning Apps

Language learning apps can be a valuable tool for second language learners. There are countless apps, like Duolingo, Babbel, and Rosetta Stone, that offer interactive and engaging ways for your ELL students to practice their blossoming language skills. Similarly, ELA programs offer an integrated approach for all students, regardless of English fluency.

Encourage students to use these apps and programs outside of class to reinforce learning and see if there are ways you can incorporate them into your teaching.

How about we continue this discussion? Join us at McGraw Hill on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. Share your experiences, get support, and join the conversation with like-minded people. Together, we can be inspired and make a real impact in our classrooms.

Humans have told stories for nearly our entire existence, beginning not long after language itself.

Remember those cave drawings you see on TV? These things have stood the test of time. Specifically, the ones etched onto the cave walls in Lascaux and Chauvet, France, are now over 30,000 years old. This could be the earliest form of storytelling that we've uncovered.

It just goes to show how deeply rooted storytelling really is in our history. Stories have become part of what makes us who we are.

Storytelling remains an incredibly powerful tool in the classroom. As educators, our words make a difference. The stories we share do more than just entertain. They build a foundation for literacy that inspires creativity. We also hope to encourage a lifelong love of reading and writing.

Here's everything you need to know about storytelling's importance for literacy development and how you can use it to maximize student potential.

The Power of Storytelling

People have always passed down knowledge and values through storytelling. This tradition is as important in the classroom today as it was in the past.

When students are immersed in stories, they develop critical thinking and comprehension skills. Stories also build a solid foundation of background knowledge. Every story adds to their knowledge of language, culture, and the world. It's a constantly growing web that connects new ideas with what they already understand.

Storytelling also activates our multiple senses, making learning immersive and memorable. The sound of a storyteller's voice, the images painted by words, and the emotions a story evokes can all contribute to a richer learning experience. It's a truly multisensory approach that makes learning not just effective but also enjoyable.

Storytelling as a Tool for Literacy Development

Reading for fun is actually becoming less common. The number of kids who enjoy reading daily has dropped by a lot, now at our lowest since at least the mid-1980s. As educators, we need to change this trend. One way to do this is through engaging storytelling.

Effective storytelling develops literacy while still being fun. When we share stories, we're also helping them build these essential skills.

Language Skills

Stories often include rich vocabulary that students haven't heard before. This exposure helps expand their language skills.

Storytelling also exposes students to a variety of sentence structures. Different narratives let students see how sentences can convey meanings and emotions. It's a natural way of understanding grammar. They begin to recognize patterns in sentence construction and use these patterns to improve their own writing and speaking skills.

Listening and Comprehension

Active listening is essential for comprehension and a life skill for better communication. It means fully focusing on and connecting with what's being said. Storytelling encourages students to listen actively, as they'll need to follow the plot, understand the story's characters, and grasp key details to fully appreciate it.

Analyzing stories lets students think critically. When students discuss a story, they consider various perspectives, identify its themes, and evaluate the characters' motivations. This analysis leads to a deeper understanding and motivates students to apply these skills to other areas of learning.

Storytelling also builds strong relationships between students and teachers. Sharing stories creates opportunities for meaningful connections and discussions. This results in a more supportive learning environment for everyone.

Reading and Writing

Students can spark a love of reading through storytelling. When students hear compelling stories, they become excited to read more on their own. This enthusiasm for reading can lead to better literacy skills and a lasting passion for books.

Students also get to practice their writing skills as they go along, coming up with their own stories and characters. It's a well-rounded approach for students to learn language and structure, while also giving them confidence as they see their ideas come to life on paper.

Creativity and Imagination

As Albert Einstein says, "Logic will get you from A to B. Imagination will take you everywhere." Just think of the amazing things students can achieve with their imagination.

Imagination is what lets us think about things that aren't real, while creativity is what makes those ideas become something meaningful. Storytelling has the ability to spark both imagination and creativity.

Through stories, students are introduced to diverse ideas that let them think creatively and explore new ways of understanding everything around them. Storytelling can take them to different places and expose them to exciting challenges that expand their imaginative capabilities.

Image: Pexels

Techniques for Effective Storytelling in School

As you can see, storytelling in class is just fantastic. But its impact can be even more powerful when done right.

It can feel like a missed opportunity when storytelling doesn't hit the mark. Students might find the story dull or hard to follow. This can make them lose interest and even feel disconnected from the lesson.

To make the most of storytelling, be sure to apply methods that can capture your students' attention and make your story stand out. So, here are storytelling techniques that can really hook your students and help get the most out of this teaching approach.

Use Your Voice to Your Advantage

Who'd want to listen to a voice that obviously sounds bored? Keep students interested by adding some flair to your storytelling! Avoid the monotone voice and match the story's mood. Having variety makes the story dynamic and fun.

Don't forget about your facial expressions and gestures. If a character is excited, try showing it with your face and hands, too. If they're scared, let that fear show through. This helps students visualize what's going on and makes the story come alive for them.

Incorporate Visual Aids

Bring your story to life with some catchy visual aids. You can use illustrations, storyboards, or even just simple props to make your story more visual. Actually showing a picture of a dragon can make your story about dragons feel real.

This is also in line with creating a classroom that students love. A classroom with bright and engaging displays makes the space inviting and can encourage them to participate.

When students see visual elements that support the story, while also creating a space that encourages them to learn, they're generally more likely to connect with you and what you're teaching.

Encourage Student Participation

Storytelling can be really effective when you involve your students. Give them opportunities to respond and share their thoughts during the story. You can ask questions to see how they're following along and let them exchange ideas about what might happen next.

There's also collaborative storytelling, where you start a story and let the students take turns adding to it. This doesn't just make the activity interactive but also gives them a chance to practice their creativity and language skills. When students are participating, they become invested in the story and can enjoy it more.

Connect Stories to the Curriculum

How about expanding the stories you make by linking them to your curriculum? These can make your lessons relevant. Choose stories that tie into what you're teaching. So, if you're learning about ancient civilizations, you can find a story that's also set in that time period.

You can use storytelling in assignments and projects. Have your students create their own stories based on what they've learned. This reinforces their understanding in a way that allows them to explore the concepts creatively.

There are also specialized books designed for teaching literacy to help you get ahead without starting from scratch. These resources align with educational standards and provide rich, engaging content that every student is sure to enjoy.

Unlock Student Literacy Potential, One Story at a Time

In today's classrooms, where reading for fun has declined, storytelling can save the day. It's a great way to connect with students and guide them to become better readers. And by incorporating storytelling into your lessons, you create a learning experience that's highly educational while also being quite enjoyable.

So, let's integrate storytelling into our teaching as much as we can. Use it to bring your lessons to life and encourage a love of learning. Every story you share shapes your students' skills and inspires their future success.

How about we continue this discussion? Join us at McGraw Hill on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram. Share your experiences, get support, and join the conversation with like-minded people. Together, we can be inspired and make a real impact in our classrooms.

Nelson Mandela famously said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just stepping into your first classroom, the start of a new school year always brings a mix of excitement and nerves. You know you have the ability to impart lasting wisdom in your students (and perhaps change the world!) but the challenges of managing a classroom can sometimes make it feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle.

Effective classroom management can make all the difference. By setting the tone from day one, you’ll be able to create an environment where learning thrives and, most importantly, all of your students feel safe.

Let’s explore the top 10 classroom management strategies you can use to help you kick off a successful school year.

Why Classroom Management Matters

Managing your classroom isn’t just about creating order and “getting kids to behave” - it's about creating a space where students feel respected and motivated to learn. 

When students know what to expect, they can focus on the content rather than chaos. In fact, research from the Education Resources Information Center shows that effective classroom management significantly impacts student achievement and reduces disruptive behaviors.

A classroom that's short on trust and respect is a classroom that's stuck in neutral (or worse). Trust can only be built when the rules are straightforward and consequences are fair and consistent - it's an authentic bond that strengthens over time. When students understand that their teacher is fair and consistent, they’re more likely to engage positively and take ownership of their learning.

Good classroom management sets the stage for long-term success. Students who walk into a well-organized classroom each morning are more likely to develop the self-control skills they need to succeed both in and out of school. As a teacher, you’ll benefit, too, as you’ll be able to spend more time teaching and less time dealing with disruptions.

With more than 70% of educators reporting that students seem to misbehave more now than ever before - and 60% of teachers admitting they always or very often feel stressed at work - the connection is clear. Streamline your classroom routine, and you'll likely find your stress levels plummeting while student performance soars.

10 Classroom Management Strategies for a Successful Start

Now that you know why classroom management is so important, how do you go about achieving it? Here are some tips:

1. Establish Clear Expectations
Start by discussing classroom rules and expectations with your students. Involve them in the process to give them a sense of ownership. Keep the rules simple, clear, and consistent. Display them prominently in the classroom so everyone can refer to them as needed.

Enforce those rules without any bias, and soon, your students will begin to understand the outcome of their choices - no exceptions, no excuses. Reliability is born from consistency, and that's the foundation upon which trust is constructed, one enforced rule at a time.

You can also use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior. Praise students when they follow the rules and meet expectations. Rewards can be as simple as verbal praise, stickers, or extra recess time. 

2. Develop a Routine
Routines are a lifesaver for adults, but for young learners, they're essential. Without structure and predictability, it's tough for them to feel secure and focused.

You don’t need to overthink it - take some time to establish daily routines for activities like morning meetings, transitions, and end-of-day procedures. For students, having a set routine is like having a safety net - it catches them when they're feeling off-kilter and calms their nerves.

You can also use visual schedules or other visual aids (like charts, pictures, or interactive whiteboards) to help students follow the routine. 

While routines are important, it’s equally important to be flexible. Update the schedule regularly, let students know about changes to the routine,  and get students involved with the process.

3. Build Relationships
Take the time to get to know your students on a personal level. Form strong bonds by taking the time to learn the tiny details that make each kid so special - their go-to ice cream order, favorite sports team, or favorite superheroes.

Foster an environment where students feel comfortable voicing their opinions, enthusiasm, and anxieties. Building strong relationships takes more than just hearing words - it requires being fully present and understanding where others are coming from.

You can further foster this sense of classroom connectedness by injecting some fun team-building activities into your lesson plans, like games and collaborative activities. 

4. Engage Students Actively
Design lessons that actively engage students. Mix it up with group projects, get hands-on with creative activities, and infuse tech into the lesson plan. Get students directly involved, and suddenly, you’ll see the learning process come alive with energy and enthusiasm.

Shifting the focus from teacher-led instruction to student-centered learning is key. It's a no-brainer: when students get to steer their own educational journey, they're more likely to care deeply about what they're learning - and that's when the real magic happens. Handing students the reins sparks a chain reaction of growth, as they blossom into critical thinkers and self-directed learners.

What if math problems or historical events weren't just abstract ideas, but actually connected to your own life experiences? That's when learning gets interesting. Students need more than just dry facts - they need to see how the lessons affect them personally. 

Incorporate current events, practical examples, and hands-on experiments to bridge the gap between theory and application. By doing this, you’ll not only help your students see the value in what they’re learning, but help them behave better and stay focused longer, too.

5. Implement Effective Discipline Strategies
Focus on positive discipline techniques that promote self-regulation and responsibility. Instead of punitive measures, use restorative practices that encourage students to reflect on their behavior and make amends. Positive discipline fosters a sense of accountability and growth.

Clearly outline the consequences for rule-breaking. Make sure the consequences are fair, consistent, and appropriate for the behavior. Communicate these consequences to students and involve them in the decision-making process when possible.

Teach students conflict-resolution skills to help them manage disagreements constructively. Role-playing, discussions, and mediation techniques can transform classroom scuffles into learning opportunities.

6. Create an Inclusive Classroom
Use diverse materials and resources that reflect the backgrounds and experiences of all students. Incorporate multicultural literature, visuals, and examples to promote inclusivity and cultural awareness.

Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse needs of your students. By taking a varied approach to teaching – incorporating different strategies, resources, and assessments – you can better reach students with diverse learning styles and abilities. 

When you deliberately design lessons to meet students where they are, they’ll discover mor purpose in the classroom.

7. Use Technology Wisely
Integrate technology to enhance learning experiences. Use educational apps, interactive whiteboards, and online resources to make lessons more engaging and interactive. Technology can provide new opportunities for exploration and creativity while also keeping students more engaged.

While technology is a valuable tool, it's important to balance screen time with other activities. Encourage students to engage in hands-on learning, physical activity, and face-to-face interactions. A balanced approach promotes overall well-being and development.

8. Foster a Growth Mindset
Promote a growth mindset by encouraging effort and perseverance. Cheer on students who slam dunk their to-do lists and summon the grit to bounce back from setbacks. Emphasize to them that a single misstep doesn't define their entire path – it's an instant to pause, regroup, and emerge stronger on the other side.

Help students define goals that are within their reach and achievable. Chunk big objectives into bite-sized tasks that you can tackle one by one. Toast their victories, no matter how small they may seem.

When giving feedback to your students, focus on growth and improvement instead of simply pointing out errors, offer specific suggestions for how students can enhance their work.

9. Encourage Parental Involvement
Establish open lines of communication with parents and guardians. Regularly share updates on student progress, classroom activities, and upcoming events. Keep the lines of communication open by sending out regular newsletters, shooting off emails, and meeting with parents one-on-one.

You should also invite parents to participate in classroom activities and events. Encourage them to volunteer, share their expertise, or contribute to special projects. Classroom dynamics really shift when parents participate –  this involvement produces a sense of purpose and a culture of encouragement.

10. Reflect and Adapt
Regularly reflect on your teaching practices and classroom management strategies. Identify what is working well and areas that need improvement. 

Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, reflectively examining your own practice lets you hone your skills and stay in sync with the students who count on you.

Set your ego aside and listen to what others have to say - colleagues and students alike. Make adjustments on the fly when necessary.  As you settle into your teaching groove, you'll start to figure out which classroom management strategies work best in your room.

The Bottom Line
Remember, classroom management is an ongoing process that requires flexibility, reflection, and a willingness to adapt.

Want to learn more from other teachers who’ve been there, done that? Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram where you can share insights, ask for advice when needed, and find additional resources to support your teaching journey.

Together, we can make a real difference - and change the world.