Why should I be using visuals with my ELLs?
A picture is worth a thousand words the saying goes, and it couldn’t be more true for English learners. After all, pictures allow people to communicate despite limited knowledge in the target language. When traveling, I am grateful for every sign with pictures to help me get where I want to go. But what are the advantages to using visuals with ELLs in the classroom?
1. Visuals support comprehension
One of the fundamental challenges faced by English learners is comprehending new vocabulary, grammatical structures, and complex ideas. For that reason, visuals provide a bridge between these abstract concepts and learners’ existing knowledge, making it easier for them to grasp and internalize new information. When learners see a visual representation of a word or concept, they can connect it to a familiar image, allowing them to form a mental link that aids in comprehension.
2. Visuals support retention
Visual aids have also proven to be highly effective in enhancing memory retention among English learners. Studies have shown that when information is presented visually, learners are more likely to remember it accurately and for a more extended period. By incorporating visual elements like charts, diagrams, and mind maps into lessons, educators can provide learners with a visual structure that helps them organize as well as retain information effectively.
3. Visuals enhance production of language
Thirdly, a goal of English language learning is to develop effective communication skills. Visual aids can greatly contribute to this goal by facilitating language production and encouraging learners to express themselves confidently. Furthermore, visuals serve as prompts for discussion, encouraging learners to generate ideas, ask questions, and participate actively in the learning process. For instance, displaying a group of similar images can spark conversations. Engaging short videos and captivating photos can inform debates, or prompt storytelling activities, where learners share their thoughts and opinions in English. This process not only strengthens their linguistic abilities but also nurtures critical thinking.
In addition to the academic benefits, students are even more invested in learning when they see that teachers have invested in making all content accessible to them. Using visuals with ELLs is one very important way to make classroom information comprehensible. To be sure, it benefits all learners, but is paramount to English learners. With this in mind, I hope you will prepare and use visuals that your students need. Don’t forget and speak up for them in the regular classroom to get the supports they need there too.
Using Visuals with ELLs resources shown above:
Click on an image above for the link to the resource or check the following resources below. And if there are visuals you can’t find but need for your classroom, come find me on Instagram @the_esl_teacher Message me to let me know what your need. I will do my best to try to help..
