Edit+to+ELL+and+Blogs+(Fall+2010)

**ELL and Blogs**
In this global society, social media has become a part of the culture. Economic restrictions aside, I would argue that no matter the person’s ethnic background, they have most likely been exposed to some sort of a social media platform. The use of social media in the classroom is more prevalent than ever. It makes sense that educators would look towards social media outlets to engage their English Language Learners (ELL). ELL students have the same dreams and desires as English speaking students. As educators adapt to the new demands of a technologically advanced world, they begin to embrace innovative teaching strategies that utilize the tools of their students’ cultures. Likewise, they search out ways to engage ELL students through authentic interactions. At this time in our society, nothing seems to be more authentic than using social media to teach the language. One benefit of using social media with ELL students is that it encourages them to express themselves. According to the National Association of Education, language acquisition is optimum when students are able to fully participate in the classroom. This may be difficult for students who are apprehensive to share their new language. Writing outlets such as blogs provide students opportunities to interact with each other without the fear and insecurities associated with speaking a new language. Teachers are able to create blogs and have student contribute to regular posts. On these blogs, students share their ideas and interact with their peers. Through these interactions, students learn a little bit about themselves and each other. Because these interactions are non-threating and authentic, ELL students begin to build the confidence they need to interact within their new English-speaking classrooms. As they use writing for genuine communication, they may show progress with other language skills such as speaking and listening. ELL students may find it difficult to confidently write their new language. One way to combat this barrier would be allowing them to start with some speech to text software. This would permit them to “see” their language in the written form as well as encourage them to practice speaking.

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