EAL Pocketbook

Britain today is culturally and linguistically diverse. One in eight pupils in primary schools speaks a language other than English; in secondary schools, one in six. Over 200 languages are spoken in London schools. EAL (English as an additional language) learners are those who were exposed to a language other than English during their early development. They come from varied backgrounds and parts of the world - including the UK -and may speak several languages but are also learning English. The EAL Pocketbook supports teachers of pupils in mainstream classes learning English as an additional language, whether in rural or urban contexts. It provides tips, tools and techniques to ensure that all pupils can thrive in their learning. Author Alice Washbourne takes an inclusive approach modelled on 'the ladder to success'. Teachers begin with the learner's skills and strengths, build on these to make learning cognitively challenging, then provide scaffolding to support their move towards independent learning. Chapters cover how to make EAL learners feel welcome; climbing the 'ladder to success'; the use of visuals and talk as learning media; supporting students across the curriculum with practical ideas for facilitating reading, writing and language development. The book is highly illustrated throughout. A range of cartoons, diagrams and other visuals support the text making the key messages both accessible and memorable. Alice Washbourne is a consultant EAL advisor, trainer and coach.