Filling the Gaps: L2 Grammar and Assessment Preparation for ELA Teachers

Abstract

An examination of pre-service English language arts (ELA) teacher preparation programs shows that many fail to adequately equip students in two crucial areas: English as a second language (ESL) grammar and ESL assessment. This chapter explains why the needs of English language learners (ELLs) in these areas are different from those of native speakers of English and why explicit Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) training in these two areas are essential for ELA teachers. The authors then describe possible curricular models and classroom activities and practices and strategies meant to close these gaps in ELA teacher training programs. They suggest that National TESOL standards need to be established for teacher preparation programs that will adequately prepare ELA teachers and others with the necessary skills and understanding to inform their practice.