Differentiated Instruction for English Language Learners: An Overview

Who should attend

Teachers of English as a Second Language Students

About this learning opportunity

In this introductory webinar, you are given an overview of Differentiated Instruction theory, principles, lesson planning, teaching and learning strategies, assessment and resources for differentiated instruction in English as a Second Language (ESL) classrooms.

A variety of instructional tools and strategies to scaffold ESL students for success are introduced. This session describes manageable ways to meet the needs of all students within a safe, inclusive environment and explores these key questions:
• What are the key principles of a differentiated classroom?
• What are effective differentiated instruction strategies for teaching ESLs?
• What can I differentiate to successfully meet the needs of my students?
• Do I need to plan individual lessons for every student?

This learning opportunity is subsidized as a result of a grant from Alberta Education to support implementation.

About the facilitator(s)

Dianne Leong-Fortier is employed with the Calgary Board of Education and is currently assigned multiple roles at William Aberhart High School. She is the Teacher-Librarian, English as a Second Language (ESL) Learning Leader, and International Student Coordinator.

She has worked with diverse populations from higher education and high school adult academic to traditional high school, junior high and elementary. Her background in the arts and culture sector, libraries, BFA, BEd After, and MEd degrees and TESL studies informs her teaching beliefs and practice. In her leadership roles (in schools and AISI), she has worked collaboratively with teachers, students and parents in all areas of facilitation and instruction in ICT and digital literacy, information literacy, art integration, differentiated instruction, ESL, and multiple learning track environments (classroom, distributed, blended and online learning). She has developed and taught online courses which include: Information Literacy, Art 10, Art 20 and Art 30, CALM online, CTS 1 credit courses in Volunteerism, Leadership and Mentorship, digital learning objects and virtual libraries for the CBE.