What is an effective way for ELLs to learn through peer interaction?

Engaging in collaborative projects with peers is an effective way for English Language Learners (ELLs) to learn through peer interaction because it provides opportunities for authentic communication and practice in a social context. Such projects encourage students to work together, share ideas, and negotiate meaning, which helps to enhance language acquisition.

When ELLs collaborate, they can draw on each other’s strengths, support each other’s learning, and build confidence in using the language. This cooperative work often leads to interactive discussions where students can ask questions, clarify doubts, and experiment with new vocabulary and grammar structures within a meaningful context. Additionally, the collaborative nature of the projects allows ELLs to practice their speaking and listening skills in a low-pressure environment, which can lead to greater language retention and fluency development.

In contrast, methods such as listening to lectures alone, memorizing vocabulary lists, or working individually on worksheets tend to limit interaction and can result in a more passive learning experience, which may not effectively support the dynamic language development ELLs need.