Integrating Culture in Instruction for ELLs

Abstract

Nationwide, there is a lack of integration of culture in instruction for English language learners (ELLs). This project explores the reasons and provides potential solutions for the problem. The literature shows there is a lack of teacher preparation, negative beliefs towards linguistic and cultural differences, and teacher misconceptions about linguistically diverse students. A solution to the problem is to implement various culturally responsive teaching (CRT) strategies including Geneva Gay’s (2013) CRT framework, instructional conversations, online CRT strategies, family engagement strategies, and strategies to embrace diversity. Future research will be necessary to determine if there is a correlation between L1’s and the effectiveness of particular CRT strategies.