Beyond Learning Styles: Brain-Based Research and English Language Learners
Judy Lombardi
In the journal article, “Beyond Learning Styles: Brain-Based Research and English Language Learners” the author discusses ways in which teachers can implement brain-based research in teaching English language learners (ELLs). Recent developments of brain-based research analyze multicultural strategies, learning styles, and diverse needs. The article addresses the challenges that ELL face and the lack of knowledge that teachers may have when teaching ELL. Supported by research, the article introduces diverse teaching approaches to equip ELL teachers with innovative brain-compatible and neurodevelopmental applications.
This article was very intriguing and informative to read. Teaching high school math at a school with a high immigrant population has presented its challenges. I personally do not think officials or administrators take into consideration the special accommodations that ELL students face in relationship to math. I think a lot of support is provided for ELL teachers who teach subjects like English/Language Arts. ELA teachers may disagree. I think everyone assume that since math is in general the same worldwide that ELL will be able to perform. This is not the case as I have witnessed in my classroom. Yes 2 x 2= 4, but what if I instruct my students to find the product of 2 and 2. This presents a language barrier not only in math concepts but also literacy issues.
I have read that "math is the same across all languages" yet, I understand your point. ELL students will have a difficult time understanding simple things such as word problems and will need help decoding it so that they can understand it. It seems as though there is low ELL understanding and support in most schools and this is problematic in such a diverse state.
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