ESOL STRATEGIES FOR READING!!! 12

Total Physical Response is a reading strategy that helps the ESOL student build their vocabulary. When students acquire a new language, they need to first be able to receive it through listening before they can ever begin to speak it. That is why this strategy is so helpful for those in the intermediate stages of language acquisition, because it lets the students respond to the spoken word, without the student having to use the word in sentences. This is a strategy that the ESOL students can practice their listening skills with.

Next Generation Sunshine State Standards:
LA.2.1.6.3 The student will use context clues to determine meanings of unfamiliar words
Common Core Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.2.1a Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions (e.g., gaining the floor in respectful ways, listening to others with care, speaking one at a time about the topics and texts under discussion).

ESOL Standards:

1. Apply essential strategies for developing and integrating the four language skills of listening composition, oral communication, reading, and writing.

Strategy 12

STEP BY STEP

• Choose vocabulary to physicalize- Choose vocabulary that will be used in the classroom, such as verbal directions, colors, and parts of the body, and list the words the students will need to know. Think of simple commands that can be given using the target vocabulary and that require a movement response such as "Stand up," "Sit down," "Touch your head," or show me the red block."

• Introduce vocabulary gradually-Introduce two or three commands at first, giving the command while demonstrating physically. For example, "Stand up" is accompanied by standing up. Motion for the students to do it with you. Introduce the next command and demonstrate. After you have introduced three commands, randomly alternate them, still demonstrating and encouraging the students' responses. 

• Drop the physical modeling- After the students have practiced the commands as you demonstrate them, and they appear to know what to do without waiting for your demonstration, drop the demonstration and encourage students to respond to the verbal commands. 
• Add additional commands- Add new commands, but no more than three at a time, always start with demonstrations as you introduce new commands, practice until the students appear to know what to do, and then drop the demonstrations.

• Add additional responses- Find new ways for the students to demonstrate their understanding of the vocabulary being practiced- such as pointing to pictures, drawing pictures, taking turns demonstrating commands- just to add practice and variety while the students are gaining confidence. 

• Play games for additional practice- Play a game with the student volunteer giving the commands, once the students gain confidence. Gradually encourage new student volunteers to give the commands. Wait until they are confident enough to volunteer. 

• Assess student progress and understanding- Because students are responding to commands with physical movements, it is easy to document their progress. Make a checklist of the commands which will require modeling. Be sure to document when students have documented with the students and celebrate together.