Quick, Easy Tools for Modifying Text

I recently learned about two incredible websites that make quick work of modifying text for ELs.  With busy teachers in mind, I created these tutorials-- you can watch both in about 10 minutes.  Every teacher of English Learners needs these tools!

Summarize in Seconds

Simplify Text

Are You A Fast Talker?

The number one complaint among English Learners is not about missing background information or gaps in vocabulary—although both are critically important.  No, the #1 complaint by my students is:

“My teacher talks too fast.”

Pacing is an overlooked and grossly underestimated aspect of teaching multilingual students.  Speech is habitual, and it is extremely difficult to be objective about it.  If you’ve ever had to give a speech and practiced slowing your pace, you know how hard it can be. 

ELs are engaged in constant, silent translation between English and their first language. 

They need time to process what’s heard in English, then translate those words into their native language—and that’s assuming they were able to understand what was said in the first place.

How fast do you speak?

I recommend audio recording one minute of your classroom instruction.  You can use an app like Speechnotes or SpeechTexter to change spoken words to written text, then simply count the words.  This will give you a sense of your current rate of speech.  140 – 160 wpm seems to be a desirable rate for making oneself clear to an audience of native speakers.  This means a target rate for teachers of ELs might be 120 – 130 (the English proficiency of the students will also be a factor, but this is a good rule of thumb).

It’s going to feel awkward at first, but that’s okay!

I still have to force myself to stay mindful of slowing my speech when I meet with parents.  I’ve been told many times that my speech is “clear”, but I think it’s a slower pace that makes it seem so.  A few tricks to slow down:

·         Take deliberate pauses

·         Take more frequent breaths

·         Make eye contact

All students benefit from hearing slower speech.

In addition to aiding comprehension, slowing down will create a more relaxed atmosphere in the classroom, and will help all students feel more at ease.  And doesn’t that make it easier to learn?

Here's what 120 wpm sounds like.

And here's some help for slowing your speech.