Simple, Low-Prep Speaking Activities for ELL Students

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Show Notes:

Drawing from my own experience teaching English as a second language, I understand how rewarding it is to help students build their confidence in a new language. At the same time, I know how challenging it can be to encourage them to speak up and actively participate in class. Balancing their language needs alongside everything else you manage as a teacher can feel overwhelming. To provide English Language Learners (ELLs) with the support they need, you need practical, effective tools that work.

One of the most impactful ways to support ELL students is through simple, low-stress games and activities that help them practice listening and speaking. In this episode, I’m sharing speaking activities designed to empower your ELL students to participate with confidence while building essential language skills.

The episode is divided into two parts. In the first section, I focus on practical, fun activities for students with little to no English, making language learning approachable and engaging. The second section explores more advanced strategies for students who are growing in their language abilities. Each activity is low-prep and emphasizes repetition, which is key to mastery. Plus, these activities can easily be adapted for partners, small groups, or the whole class.

Every ELL student brings unique stories, strengths, and cultural perspectives to your classroom, making the experience of working with them truly inspiring. As they progress from listening to speaking, reading, and writing, you’ll witness their growth in the language firsthand. If you’re looking for simple, low-prep speaking activities that integrate seamlessly into your routine without adding extra stress, this episode is for you!

Inside this week's show, you'll learn:

• Simple and practical speaking activities to use with your ELL students who are both beginners and advanced in their language skills.
• How to best support ELL students with effective tools that seamlessly fit into your classroom routines.
• Background information regarding ELL students and a breakdown of the progression of learning a language.
• How each speaking activity can build based on the development of your students’ language and why repetition is essential for mastery.

Links & resources mentioned inside this episode: 

• Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset
• Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms
• Follow Dr. Lori on Instagram
• Follow Dr. Lori on Facebook
• Follow Beginning Teacher Talk on TikTok

I hope this information is helpful as you prepare for your first, second, or third year of teaching. Until next time, remember, just because you're a beginning elementary teacher, there's no need for you to struggle like one.

💛 Lori

Dr. Lori Friesen | Beginning Teacher Mentor

Creator of the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy and The Classroom Management Club, Dr. Lori Friesen has mentored thousands of beginning teachers across the country through her workshops and courses. Host of the popular podcast Beginning Teacher Talk and author of Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do, Dr. Lori is dedicated to serving educators and inspiring learners. Learn more at drlorifriesen.com.

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Related episodes you might enjoy:

• 7 Ways to Support English Language Learners in Your Classroom
• Classroom Management Hack: Use Sign Language
• How to Support Your Speech & Language Students with Hallie Sherman

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