What practice can assist ELLs in developing oral communication skills?

Encouraging pair or group discussions is an effective practice for assisting English Language Learners (ELLs) in developing oral communication skills. This approach allows ELLs to engage in interactive dialogue, which is crucial for language development. Through discussions, students have the opportunity to practice speaking in a less formal environment, which can help alleviate anxiety and build confidence. Pairing them with peers who may have varying levels of proficiency promotes meaningful exchanges, as they can learn from each other and support one another's language development.

Discussions also provide a context for learners to use new vocabulary and sentence structures in real-life scenarios, enhancing their understanding and retention of the language. This collaborative learning experience fosters not only language skills but also social interaction, which is vital for ELLs to feel connected and invested in their learning environment.