English Language Learners
English Language Learners
From 2007-2009, The American Museum of Natural History, in collaboration with NYC public schools, offered a Science Literacy Program for science educators working with English language learners (ELL) in 6th grade. The purpose of the program was to: capitalize on the use of "Visual Scientific Resources" to deepen knowledge of Earth science: help educators learn linguistic strategies for scaffolding science content and processes; use the museum exhibits and museum learning strategies such as observation, recording, description, and comparison to supplement in-school learning; and honor students' native languages and model English language skills. The program focused on the following topics: ecosystems, climate and weather, water cycle, clouds, and seasons. Below, participating teachers, Museum educators, and administrators tell their stories about the experience.
An Overview
Dr. Maritza MacDonald gives an overview of the program and its purpose.
Differentiating Instruction for Special Education ELL Students
Flora Padro tells how Climate Change inspired students' learning about weather and climate.
ESL Strategies to Construct Science Learning
Teacher Adrienne Lopez relates how the NOAA program helped inspire a unit on clouds.
Expeditionary Learning
Norma Peek recounts how Museum visits helped her students complete final projects about human impact on the environment.
Field Trips With English Language Learners
Teacher Maria Pineda's story about field trips to the Museum after participating in professional development programs.
Leadership Breakfasts/Family Day
Assistant Principal Patricia Catania tells how the program enriched science learning at her school, and the development of a bilingual book.
Meet the Scientist/NOAA Assemblies
Dr. Adriana Aquino participates in the NOAA program as the "assembly scientist."
NOAA Program Activities
Museum educator Minna Palaquibay's story about collaboration between ESL teachers, school administrations, students and families.
NSTA Presentation of NOAA Program
Monica Garcia summarizes the presentation made by Museum colleagues and teachers at the NSTA Conference.
Using Exhibition Halls to Teach Science
Museum Educator Jay Holmes tells how Museum dioramas have inspired his work.
