Chapter 2: Second Language Acquisition

All day and in every corner of a school language abounds. At home and in school students learn language, learn about language, and learn through language. Interactions between teachers and students and among students are essential to build community in schools. Before and after school, during free time, and in the cafeteria, students engage in conversations on a number of topics. In the classroom, teachers share content to build student knowledge and communicate directions; students engage in learning processes, build relationships as they use language to help each other learn, and display knowledge and skills. Effective instruction that builds students second language proficiency is essential to ensure that all students who are learning English as an additional language (EAL) are successful.