Based on research, reading experts, and school successes, when should ELL students be provided with formal instruction in reading and writing English?
A) as soon as they can sound out several hundred common English words
B) once they have mastered conversational English
C) simultaneously as they learn to read and write in their native language
D) after they have a sufficient grasp of English and of basic reading in their native language

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A) Usually the best way to teach reading and writing to ELLs is in their native language, often while teaching them to speak English. This builds a solid foundation in their native tongue. Formal instruction in reading in a second language should wait until students have a sufficient grasp of English and of basic reading in their native language. Thonis (cited in Fillmore & Valdez, 1986) cautioned that reading in a second language should not be attempted until students have reached a level where they can interpret the text and draw inferences. However, they may be involved in an informal introduction to English reading and writing early on.
B) Usually the best way to teach reading and writing to ELLs is in their native language, often while teaching them to speak English. This builds a solid foundation in their native tongue. Formal instruction in reading in a second language should wait until students have a sufficient grasp of English and of basic reading in their native language. Thonis (cited in Fillmore & Valdez, 1986) cautioned that reading in a second language should not be attempted until students have reached a level where they can interpret the text and draw inferences. However, they may be involved in an informal introduction to English reading and writing early on.
C) Usually the best way to teach reading and writing to ELLs is in their native language, often while teaching them to speak English. This builds a solid foundation in their native tongue. Formal instruction in reading in a second language should wait until students have a sufficient grasp of English and of basic reading in their native language. Thonis (cited in Fillmore & Valdez, 1986) cautioned that reading in a second language should not be attempted until students have reached a level where they can interpret the text and draw inferences. However, they may be involved in an informal introduction to English reading and writing early on.
D) Usually the best way to teach reading and writing to ELLs is in their native language, often while teaching them to speak English. This builds a solid foundation in their native tongue. Formal instruction in reading in a second language should wait until students have a sufficient grasp of English and of basic reading in their native language. Thonis (cited in Fillmore & Valdez, 1986) cautioned that reading in a second language should not be attempted until students have reached a level where they can interpret the text and draw inferences. However, they may be involved in an informal introduction to English reading and writing early on.

Based on Research, Reading Experts, and School Successes, When Should