English Only Classrooms

<b> Forum for elementary education ESL/EFL teachers </b>

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RachelMHansen
Posts: 14
Joined: Tue May 08, 2012 9:16 pm
Location: Camden, NJ

English Only Classrooms

Post by RachelMHansen » Tue Jun 12, 2012 5:24 pm

I would like some opinions on the “English Only” debate in ESL classrooms.
I understand the value that a native language can bring to the classroom, especially when new difficult concepts are being introduced. However, where does one draw the line? What type of guidelines can be set up in order to maximize the benefit of utilizing a native language but still allow for a development of English skills? I want to create a classroom where a high value is placed on both the native language, as well as English.
Also- Should whether or not the ESL teacher speaks only English be a factor in this debate?

lip420
Posts: 36
Joined: Sun Mar 13, 2011 6:23 am
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Post by lip420 » Wed Jun 20, 2012 1:44 pm

I usually teach kids and I keep an English only rule. If they want to speak in their native language then they have to raise their hand and ask. It works great.

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