Enhancing Reading Proficiency in English Language Learners (ELLs): The Importance of Knowing Your ELL in Mainstream Classrooms

In this manuscript, the authors encourage classroom teachers and school leaders to learn about the home culture and language of the growing English learner population if they are to respond effectively to these students’ language, literacy, and content learning needs. These funds of knowledge have been shown to help teachers adjust instruction in ways that permit students to engage more actively in language, literacy, and content learning tasks. In addition to offering recommendations for administrators and teachers working to improve literacy of ELLs within and outside the school setting, the authors share sample surveys that can be used to gather information about students’ home, language, and educational background as well as reading habits and preferences