Using Academic Language to Level the Playing Field for English Language Learners in Physical Education: Part 2

Abstract

The common core, with its emphasis on the development of English language art and mathematics skills and literacy, presents challenges for teachers of all subjects. Academic language is expected to be developed within each disciplinary area. In other words, educators are expected to identify the language demands of their discipline and prepare students to utilize the discipline-specific vocabulary and language function to effectively communicate within the content area. This article aims to address some of the challenging issues physical educators face in the process of implementing academic language in conjunction with promoting literacy among English-language learners (ELLs). It presents specific teaching strategies that can help “level the playing field” for ELLs while promoting academic language in physical education classes. Moreover, it provides ideas that can help reduce the disparities between ELLs and native speaker learners, and promote more opportunities for achievement for all students.