Project-Based Learning (PBL) for Middle School English-Language Learners (ELLs)
Student-driven inquiry led by essential questions is a powerful means of presenting complex concepts in a few strokes (Boss, 2014). This is most effective when educators support project design processes with key scaffolds and use solid teaching tools and evaluations customized to be relevant in a particular classroom context.
Language and conceptual supports are vital to students who are still building confidence in their academic reading and writing abilities, as well as to their peers who already work at grade level or beyond (Echevarria, 1995).
Mastery in the middle grades is not only about understanding content, but also becoming comfortable with intellectual tools and and scholarly practices that are new to all students at this grade level. It is not enough to work on the mechanics of language acquisition and hope students persist until the more interesting content arrives. We have to engage them in developmentally appropriate content and activities right now - with supports.
Student-driven inquiry led by essential questions is a powerful means of presenting complex concepts in a few strokes (Boss, 2014). This is most effective when educators support project design processes with key scaffolds and use solid teaching tools and evaluations customized to be relevant in a particular classroom context.
Language and conceptual supports are vital to students who are still building confidence in their academic reading and writing abilities, as well as to their peers who already work at grade level or beyond (Echevarria, 1995).
Mastery in the middle grades is not only about understanding content, but also becoming comfortable with intellectual tools and and scholarly practices that are new to all students at this grade level. It is not enough to work on the mechanics of language acquisition and hope students persist until the more interesting content arrives. We have to engage them in developmentally appropriate content and activities right now - with supports.
