TESOL Advanced Certificate Candidate at Touro University Angelee Bess’ Structured CoPilot Prompting & Developing AI Literacy in Teacher Candidates

As part of Touro University’s comprehensive initiative to introduce AI literacy across teacher education programs, I am engaged in a Touro University grant focused on developing AI literacy in TESOL candidates. My project-based approach empowers future educators to leverage AI as a strategic partner in curriculum design, bridging theoretical understanding with applied classroom practice.

Within this initiative, teacher candidates progress from mastering the fundamentals of curriculum mapping to designing comprehensive, differentiated learning sequences that reflect professional teaching standards grounded in research-backed principles.

My primary instructional goals are to:

  • Teach foundational and applied AI competencies,
  • Develop practical skills in standards-based curriculum design,
  • Showcase AI as a collaborative tool in instructional planning, and
  • Align deliverables with professional teaching standards.

Foundational AI Competencies

AI vocabulary is embedded throughout the project via explicit terminology such as prompt engineering, AI-assisted content structuring, LLM interaction, and iterative feedback loops. This structured language development ensures that candidates move from foundational comprehension to applied proficiency, demonstrating the ability to use domain-specific AI concepts meaningfully in curriculum contexts.

Ethical Thinking

Ethical reasoning is central to the project’s design. Candidates must maintain human oversight and exercise critical evaluation of AI-generated contributions for instructional quality and curricular coherence. By foregrounding professional judgment and ethical discernment, the project cultivates a nuanced understanding of AI’s potential and its limitations, underscoring the continued necessity of educator expertise.

In upcoming blog posts, I will showcase current student output, highlighting innovative examples of how TESOL candidates apply structured CoPilot prompting to create differentiated, AI-supported instructional materials. These exemplars demonstrate how AI literacy and pedagogical practice intersect to prepare a new generation of educators for the evolving digital landscape of teaching and learning.

Angelee Bess holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Science from Cornell University, a Master’s Degree in Childhood Education from Fordham University, and Extensions in both Early Childhood Education and Gifted Education. She is currently pursuing a TESOL Advanced Certificate at Touro University while working as a K-2 ENL Teacher at an elementary school in Brooklyn, NY. Angelee strives to create an inclusive environment that recognizes, embraces, and values the cultural and linguistic diversity of her students, helping them thrive both academically and socially. Her motto: “Be the change you wish to see in the world” – Mahatma Gandhi

Ms. Bess’ observation in working with CoPilot: “I was impressed by how quickly Copilot created a lesson tailored for Entering-level MLs. By including the grade level, topic, language proficiency, and support needs in my prompt, I received a mini-lesson with simplified text, a visual anchor chart, printable materials, a vocabulary table, and activity suggestions—all differentiated for beginner learners. I initially focused on Entering students to help plan for Stand-Alone ENL classes, but I can also see the value in using Copilot for Integrated settings. I plan to use similar prompts for other proficiency levels to support all MLs in my classroom. Copilot also gave the option to expand the mini-lesson into a full lesson plan with objectives, standards, and assessments, which makes it a powerful tool for creating instruction that connects to students’ experiences and supports their language development.”

Furthermore, Ms. Bess created anchor charts and visuals through structured prompting:

Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Certificate

New York’s classrooms are some of the most culturally and linguistically diverse in the country. Our TESOL certificate program prepares NYS-certified teachers to provide responsive, comprehensive education to students of every background.

Personal OpinionPedagogical Value of Discussion Boards in Online Courses
I utilize discussion boards as essential scaffolding tools in my online courses at Touro University, providing multilayered support for my master’s degree candidates’ academic development. These course discussion boards function as preparatory spaces where my teacher candidates can practice academic writing conventions, develop critical thinking skills, and experiment with disciplinary discourse before tackling more substantial assignments such as research papers or presentations. Through regular posting requirements, my candidates create meaningful artifacts that demonstrate their evolving command of academic English and pedagogical understanding, including proper APA citation practices which prepare them for graduate-level academic work. The iterative nature of discussion board participation enables me to track my candidates’ linguistic and academic progress throughout the semester, providing valuable opportunities to observe candidate growth over time and identify when coaching sessions are needed, particularly when I notice disconnects between course materials and student responses.

Touro University TESOL Certificate Candidate Maureen Leggett’s Teaching Philosophy & Authentic Voice

EDPN 673 Methods and Materials for Teaching English as a Second Language

This course provides a historical overview of second language acquisition theories and teaching methods. Students learn how to apply current approaches, methods and techniques, with attention to the effective use of materials, in teaching English as a second language. Students will engage in the planning and implementation of standards-based ESL instruction which includes differentiated learning experiences geared to students’ needs. Emphasis is placed on creating culturally responsive learning environments. Includes 15 hours of field work.

Dr. Cowin’s Advice on Articulating a Teaching Philosophy

As a professor who has spent years preparing TESOL educators for the classroom, I want to share why developing your teaching philosophy is not just another academic exercise, but the foundation upon which your entire career will stand. When I first began teaching, I thought methodology was everything. I spent countless hours perfecting lesson plans and mastering techniques. Yet something was missing. It wasn’t until I articulated my core beliefs about language learning that my teaching transformed from mechanical application to purposeful practice.

Your teaching philosophy serves as your professional compass, particularly crucial in TESOL where you navigate complex intersections of language, culture, identity, and power. Every day, you make hundreds of decisions in your classroom. Without a clear philosophy grounding these choices, you risk becoming reactive rather than intentional, swayed by the latest trends or administrative pressures rather than guided by deep convictions about what your students need.

Consider how the guiding questions connect to real classroom moments. When a student struggles with pronunciation, your response stems from your beliefs about error correction and the role of accent in communication. When parents worry their child is losing their home language, your philosophy shapes whether you see this as inevitable or preventable, and how you engage families as partners. When standardized test pressures mount, your philosophy determines whether you narrow your curriculum or maintain rich, meaningful language experiences. These aren’t theoretical considerations; they’re daily realities that demand principled responses.The requirement to articulate your core beliefs forces you to examine assumptions you may not realize you hold.

Writing your philosophy demands honest reflection on how your own language learning experiences, both positive and negative, shape your expectations for students. This self-awareness is essential for avoiding the trap of teaching as you were taught rather than teaching as your students need.

Your classroom practice section bridges the critical gap between theory and application. Too often, teachers claim student-centered beliefs while maintaining teacher-dominated classrooms. By explicitly connecting your principles to specific practices, you create accountability for yourself. If you believe in honoring home languages, how does this manifest in your lesson planning? If you value collaborative learning, what structures support meaningful peer interaction? This alignment between beliefs and actions builds integrity in your practice.The student-centered approach component challenges you to move beyond generic commitments to “meeting all learners’ needs” toward aspecific understanding of the multilingual learners in your context. New York’s ESOL students aren’t abstract categories but individuals navigating complex linguistic landscapes. Some are refugees processing trauma while acquiring academic English. Others are heritage speakers reclaiming languages their families were pressured to abandon. Your philosophy must acknowledge this diversity while maintaining high expectations for all learners.

Professional growth isn’t an addendum to your philosophy but integral to ethical practice. Language teaching methodologies evolve as we gain a deeper understanding of second language acquisition. Demographics shift, bringing new languages and cultures into our classrooms. Educational policies change, sometimes supporting and at other times constraining our work. A static philosophy becomes obsolete. A commitment to ongoing development means your philosophy remains a living document, refined through experience and responsive to your students’ evolving needs. The authenticity requirement protects against the temptation to write what you think others want to hear. When challenges arise, and they will, only genuine conviction will sustain you. Your philosophy should reflect hard-won insights from your own journey, not perfect answers from textbooks.

Maureen Young Leggett teaches elementary education in New York City Public Schools. She studied History and English Literature at Colgate University in Hamilton, NY, and chose the field of education as her second career. She received her Master of Science in Education, Birth through Grade 6, from Hofstra University in Uniondale, NY. Maureen is proud that her students leave her classroom each day knowing how to think harder and communicate better.

“So many of by students are multilingual. They are learning English as their second or even third language. My quest to find ways for them to be academically successful has led me to Touro. I am currently pursuing my TESOL certification.”

Maureen Leggett, Touro University TESOL Certificate Candidate

Touro University TESOL Candidate Madison Derwin’s Discussion Board 3 in EDDN 635 Curriculum Development and Classroom Management in the Technology Era

EDDN 635 Curriculum Development and Classroom Management in the Technology Era

This comprehensive course builds upon the foundation of curriculum development and classroom management in the context of teaching English language learners. Expanding its horizons to embrace the digital age, the course adeptly weaves innovative technology integration into the domain of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Crafted to empower prospective TESOL/BLE educators, the course hones in on fostering competence in designing, implementing, assessing, and reflecting within diverse language learning environments, all while capitalizing on the potentials of cutting-edge technology. With a strong focus on practical application and discerning appraisal of technological tools, this course primes upcoming educators to excel amidst the ever-evolving educational landscape. Includes 10 hours of field work.

Personal Opinion: Pedagogical Value of Discussion Boards in Online Courses
I utilize discussion boards as essential scaffolding tools in my online courses at Touro University, providing multilayered support for my master’s degree candidates’ academic development. These course discussion boards function as preparatory spaces where my teacher candidates can practice academic writing conventions, develop critical thinking skills, and experiment with disciplinary discourse before tackling more substantial assignments such as research papers or presentations. Through regular posting requirements, my candidates create meaningful artifacts that demonstrate their evolving command of academic English and pedagogical understanding, including proper APA citation practices which prepare them for graduate-level academic work. The iterative nature of discussion board participation allows me to track my candidates’ linguistic and academic progress throughout the semester, giving me valuable opportunities to observe candidate growth over time and identify when coaching sessions are needed if I notice disconnects between course materials and student responses. Additionally, peer response activities foster collaborative learning and provide authentic audiences for feedback exchange on their larger assignments. Using discussion boards to introduce emerging technologies such as mind mapping tools, multimedia integration, and collaborative platforms helps prepare my teacher candidates for 21st-century classroom instruction and professional communication demands. I believe, that this scaffolded approach ultimately bridges theory and practice while allowing me to provide targeted, individualized support based on ongoing assessment of candidate performance. Madison Derwin submitted an exemplary Discussion board in EDDN 635 Curriculum Development and Classroom Management in the Technology Era and permitted me to share it.

Madison Derwin, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Inclusive Childhood Education from SUNY Cortland. She currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in TESOL at Touro University while working as a 4th-grade Teacher’s Assistant at an elementary school on Long Island. Her goal as an educator is to create an inclusive, supportive learning environment that empowers every student to reach their full potential and thrive both academically and socially. Her motto is “I’m not telling you it’s going to be easy- I’m telling you it’s going to be worth it.” – Art Williams

Module 3 Discussion Board 3 by Madison Derwin

  1. Try out Wakelet https://wakelet.com/explore

As a teacher’s assistant in a 4th grade classroom, planning and collaborating with my teacher ensures consistent support for our students’ learning needs. Together, we align lesson goals, share resources, and coordinate instructional strategies to create a fun and engaging environment. Because of this, I chose to focus my Wakelet on the math unit that we just recently finished. The collection includes the four lessons that were learned throughout the chapter. Within each one is a YouTube mini lesson video, a reteach worksheet, and an enrichment worksheet. This is going to best support our students by providing them with additional resources to help them to study for the upcoming exam.

https://wakelet.com/wake/jsZ2OlinRlfYujy77p_EN

Discuss the English Learner Education Collaboration Tool (PDF is provided in the course). How might this tool help you with your Curriculum map?  Be specific!

The English Learner Education Collaboration Tool is a guide that is designed to help educators work together to support English learners in both language and content learning. I believe that its main goal is to offer a framework that integrates the WIDA English Language Development Standards into daily lesson planning. The WIDA Standards “can help you [educators] integrate language development and content learning that is suitable to the grade level and the various English language proficiencies of your students” (WIDA, 2025). The Collaboration Tool addresses three essential questions, such as how to teach language and content at the same time, which language skills to prioritize with limited time, and how language and content teachers can collaborate using shared language and processes (DESE, 2025). There are thinking spaces that are divided into two categories: Language for Learning, Thinking, and Being; and Developing Unit-Level Focus Language Goals. The first Thinking Space is about guiding educators to set learning goals, gather evidence, plan for teaching, and plan for student activities. The other Thinking Space connects language goals with content standards.

I believe the English Learner Education Collaboration Tool might help me with my Curriculum Map by providing me with a practical framework to integrate meaningful language supports as well as academic content. The tool focuses on combining language development and content learning together, not separately. I am looking forward to seeing how I can use this knowledge while working on my curriculum map while addressing both areas. I can also align my curriculum map with the WIDA standards and proficiency levels, as they will assist me in checking in to ensure that my curriculum map matches the language skills my students are learning.

  • Discuss the following curriculum analysis and think about how you might do your curriculum analysis.  Think about which curriculum you might use for YOUR analysis. (Curriculum analysis example provided in the course)

Personally, I believe that the following curriculum map analysis has many strengths and areas for improvement. For example, the curriculum analysis provided correlates to the Next Generation ELA Standards while integrating the topic of science to reinforce literacy skills. Although the standards are connected to assessment tasks, they are not WIDA or proficiency level aligned. I feel like if the standards were WIDA aligned, then the student who analyzed this curriculum would have had an easier time combining language development and content learning together and not separately. Second, this curriculum analysis does use phenomena-based learning and incorporates multiple learning methods to enhance understanding. This provides support for Multilingual Learners. One thing that I would change within this analysis is the use of technology. There are some digital tools that were mentioned, however expanding the integration of technology could boost learning beyond the classroom. When it comes time for me to start on my curriculum analysis, I am going to align my standards to WIDA as well as include multiple and different uses of technology for my students to use. For my analysis, I am thinking of using the Personal Identity unit that is part of my 4th grade curriculum.

References:

Common Core State Standards. (2010). Common Core State Standards for ELA & Literacy/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects. CoreStandards.org.
https://corestandards.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ELA_Standards1.pdf.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). (2025). English Learner Education Collaboration Tool. Doe.mass.edu. https://www.doe.mass.edu/ele/instruction/.

Newburgh Enlarged City School District. (2017). Kindergarten through Fifth Grade Curriculum Maps. Newburghschools.org. https://www.newburghschools.org/files/departments/curriculum/documentcenter/FullCurriculumMapFile-8-28-2017N.pdf

New York State Education Department. (2017). New York State Next Generation English Language Arts Learning Standards. nysed.gov.
https://www.nysed.gov/sites/default/files/programs/standards-instruction/nys-next-generation-ela-standards.pdf.

WIDA, University of Wisconsin-Madison. (2025). Teaching with Standards. WIDA. https://wida.wisc.edu/teach/standards.

Touro University Master’s Degree Candidate Elizabeth Guallpa’s Fieldwork Instructional Synopsis Observation Report for EDDN 637

EDDN 637 Second Language Learners and the Content Areas

Students will become acquainted with and practice effective approaches, methods, and strategies for teaching and evaluating English language learners in the content areas (ELA, social studies, math and science). Throughout the course, students will explore the impact of culture and language on classroom learning. Special challenges in teaching and assessment in each content area will also be discussed. Includes 15 hours of field work.

Elizabeth Guallpa teaches Spanish to both heritage and non-heritage speakers at Port Richmond High School in Staten Island, New York.  In order to enhance her proficiency in assisting multilingual learners, she is presently pursuing a TESOL/Bilingual Extension at Touro University.  Elizabeth’s passion as a teacher is helping kids to thrive academically and linguistically via culturally relevant instruction.

My experience at Touro University has changed my life, providing me with the skills, self-assurance, and vision I need to provide excellent, empathetic multilingual instruction. I’ve been reminded of why I selected this road by each course, which has pushed me to develop as an advocate and educator. In addition to improving my professional abilities, Touro has strengthened my resolve to elevate the voices of multilingual and immigrant pupils.

Elizabeth Guallpa, Touro University Master’s Degree Candidate

Touro University Master’s Degree Candidate Angelina Libardi’s EDPN 673 Fieldwork Project

EDPN 673 Methods and Materials for Teaching English as a Second Language:This is a specific course within the MS in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program at Touro University’s Graduate School of Education. It focuses on historical theories, current teaching methods, and the practical application of materials for teaching English as a second language. 

The fieldwork assignment integrates field inquiry with technology-supported design to build core TESOL competencies. In Part I, candidates observe multiple bilingual or ESOL classrooms, conduct teacher and, where permitted, student interviews, and keep structured descriptive, reflective, and analytic notes with verbatim evidence, including basic documentation of the interview setup. In Part II, they investigate tech tools for instructional materials then produce a concise guide and an example material they created for multilingual learners. The final write up synthesizes pedagogy, materials, and assessment practices, and aligns insights with state and professional standards. In my opinion, this strengthens TESOL teacher education by cultivating evidence-informed analysis, standards-aligned planning and assessment, principled technology integration for differentiation, and reflective practice that centers multilingual learners’ profiles and voices.

Angelina Libardi is an elementary school teacher with a background in Childhood Education and Special Education. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in TESOL, with a focus on supporting multilingual learning in inclusive classroom settings. Her work reflects a commitment to equality, language access, and empowering all students to thrive. 

My experience in the TESOL program at Touro University has deepened my understanding of language, culture, and identity. It has empowered me to create more inclusive, responsive learning environments for every student I teach. 

Angelina Libardi, Touro University Master’s Degree Candidate

Touro TESOL Candidate Maria Quiroz’ Curriculum Analysis for EDDN 635 Curriculum Development and Classroom Management in the Technology Era

EDDN 635 Curriculum Development and Classroom Management in the Technology Era

This comprehensive course builds upon the foundation of curriculum development and classroom management in the context of teaching English language learners. Expanding its horizons to embrace the digital age, the course adeptly weaves innovative technology integration into the domain of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). Crafted to empower prospective TESOL/BLE educators, the course hones in on fostering competence in designing, implementing, assessing, and reflecting within diverse language learning environments, all while capitalizing on the potentials of cutting-edge technology. With a strong focus on practical application and discerning appraisal of technological tools, this course primes upcoming educators to excel amidst the ever-evolving educational landscape. Includes 10 hours of field work.

Maria Quiroz is a certified World Language teacher in Spanish for grades 7–12, who also holds a FLES extension for grades K–6. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in TESOL at Touro University. Her goal is to create inclusive, engaging learning environments that support diverse language learners across all age levels.


Maria Quiroz’ reflection on the assignment itself: This assignment was part of the Curriculum Analysis project in the Touro TESOL program. I analyzed the Getting to Know New York City unit for high school Emerging-level Multilingual Learners, using the EDDN 635 Alignment Reflection Tool. The work involved examining alignment with New York State Next Generation ELA Standards and WIDA ELD Standards, identifying supports and barriers for multilingual learners, and reflecting on ways to strengthen language and content integration. The process included multiple drafts and revisions, allowing me to develop a deeper synthesis of research-based ESOL strategies and culturally responsive curriculum design.

“Touro has inspired me to embrace innovation and equity in my teaching and given me the tools to support multilingual learners with confidence and purpose.”
Thank you again for this opportunity.

Maria Quiroz, Touro TESOL Candidate

Touro University TESOL Candidate Oralia Lainez-Tutka’s Instructional Material Critique & Redesign with Infographic

EDPN 673: Methods and Materials for Teaching English as a Second
Language
: The Instructional Material Critique & Redesign with Infographic assignment prepares Touro University TESOL candidates to critically evaluate and adapt instructional materials for multilingual learners across diverse educational contexts. The assignment structure addresses specific TESOL and AAQEP standard requirements while developing essential professional competencies our graduates need in the field.
The dual-material analysis requirement ensures candidates develop expertise in material evaluation across developmental levels, addressing TESOL Standard 2 by requiring deep analysis of how language acquisition intersects with academic content delivery. Candidates must demonstrate understanding of developmental language trajectories and their implications for instructional material selection, a core competency for effective TESOL practice.
The WIDA PRIME protocol integration provides candidates with industry-standard evaluation tools currently used by school districts nationwide for material adoption decisions. This practical application directly aligns with AAQEP Standard 1’s emphasis on evidence-based practice while ensuring our graduates can contribute meaningfully to curriculum adoption processes in their professional contexts.
The non-negotiable criteria assessment develops candidates’ capacity to identify and address systemic barriers that multilingual learners face in accessing grade-level content. This component operationalizes TESOL Standard 3 by requiring examination of cultural representation and linguistic accessibility, while AAQEP Standard 2’s equity focus is addressed through critical analysis of how materials support or hinder multilingual learner success.
The redesign component transforms theoretical knowledge into practical application through differentiated material adaptation. Candidates must operationalize TESOL Standard 5 by creating instructionally sound modifications that maintain academic rigor while providing appropriate linguistic scaffolding across proficiency levels. This authentic assessment demonstrates candidate impact on multilingual learner outcomes, satisfying AAQEP Standard 3 requirements.
The infographic creation simultaneously addresses AAQEP’s technology integration competency requirements and develops visual literacy skills essential for multilingual learner instruction. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency with digital design tools while creating pedagogically sound visual supports that enhance comprehension for diverse learners. This component ensures graduates can effectively integrate educational technology to improve multilingual learner outcomes while building practical skills for immediate classroom application.
This assignment ensures our graduates possess both analytical expertise and practical competencies necessary for effective multilingual learner instruction.

Oralia Lainez-Tutka is a middle school Spanish teacher on Staten Island. Coming from a Spanish-speaking household, she is proud to be a first-generation college graduate now pursuing her master’s in TESOL at Touro College. She’s also a mom to a bilingual toddler, which makes this journey even more meaningful to her. She’s currently in her third semester.

I am already applying new scaffolding strategies and techniques in my teaching.  I’ve learned a lot so far during my Touro journey and am truly enjoying the learning process. I feel well supported by my professors and the program as a whole. 

Oralia Lainez-Tutka, TESOL Master’s Candidate, Touro University

The Lexical Knowledge and Analysis for Teachers Infographic designed by Dr. Jasmin (Bey) Cowin

The Lexical Knowledge and Analysis for Teachers infographic serves as a resource specifically for teachers who might find it useful as a reference in their lesson preparation or even for students. This visual guide responds to educators’ need for practical, research-based strategies that bridge theoretical understanding with classroom application in vocabulary development.

The Critical Role of Lexical Knowledge in Second Language Learning

Vocabulary acquisition stands as one of the most fundamental yet complex challenges in second language learning.

The significance of lexical competence extends far beyond simple word recognition. As demonstrated through the multifaceted approach outlined in this infographic, vocabulary knowledge encompasses both breadth (the quantity of words learners recognize) and depth (the nuanced understanding of word meanings, contexts, and relationships). This dual dimension of vocabulary knowledge directly impacts students’ ability to comprehend complex texts, express sophisticated ideas, and navigate academic discourse across disciplines.

It is crucial to acknowledge that language learning fundamentally requires vocabulary memorization and lexical knowledge stored in human memory. Despite technological advances and the availability of AI tools, there is no substitute for internalized vocabulary knowledge. Real-time communication, whether in academic or social contexts, demands immediate access to lexical items without external assistance. No amount of AI offloading will change this fundamental requirement of language acquisition.

Moreover, the tiered vocabulary framework presented here (distinguishing between high-frequency words, academic vocabulary, and subject-specific terminology) offers teachers a systematic approach to prioritizing instruction. This strategic focus ensures that limited classroom time is invested in vocabulary that will yield maximum communicative and academic benefits for learners.

The emphasis on morphological awareness represents another crucial element, as it empowers students to independently decode unfamiliar words by understanding common prefixes, suffixes, and roots. This metacognitive strategy transforms learners from passive recipients of vocabulary instruction into active word learners who can continue expanding their lexical repertoire beyond the classroom.

Perhaps most importantly, the practical applications detailed in this framework bridge the often-cited gap between theory and practice. By providing concrete steps for lexical analysis, strategic vocabulary selection, and integrated instruction across language domains, this approach enables teachers to make informed, evidence-based decisions about vocabulary instruction that directly support their students’ linguistic and academic development.

Touro University TESOL Candidate Maria Fernandez on Assessment and Professional Responsibilities

MS in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages: New York is a state that speaks many languages. We need teachers who can find the common ground.The MS in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Program helps NYS-certified PreK-12 teachers more effectively teach and communicate with a diverse student population.

Maria Fernandez is a former English Language Learner who enjoys exploring other cultures through travel whenever possible. Currently, she serves as a 12:1:1 special education teacher in District 75, where she brings enthusiasm and dedication to her teaching practice.

In EDDN 637 Second Language Learners and the Content Area students will become acquainted with and practice effective approaches, methods, and strategies for teaching and evaluating English language learners in the content areas (ELA, social studies, math and science). Throughout the course, students will explore the impact of culture and language on classroom learning. Special challenges in teaching and assessment in each content area will also be discussed. Includes 15 hours of field work.

One of the discussion boards asks:

  1. What is your responsibility AS A TESOL PROFESSIONAL in terms of Initial Assessment of Language Proficiency?
    Demonstrate by showing realia the difference between formal and informal assessment. You can take photos of anonymized assessment types from YOUR classroom. For example, if you used Kahoot, or a test or an exit ticket.
    2.How do YOU assess student progress and learning for your ELLs? Take ONE of the realia student samples from telpas-annotated-examples-of-student-writing.pdf and assess the example using academic TESOL terms. Include a photo of your example in your presentation.
    What are ways to provide specific constructive affirmations to students to keep them progressing and motivated? (Think about technology tools too, badges etc.) share at least one link, hand-out, exit ticket, or other realia to an assessment tool you use in your professional practice. (Take a photo!)

Maria Fernandez’s contribution shows her attention to detail and depth of contribution.