What can be done about language barriers to learning?
• Reduce the demand on reading and language skills. • Use fonts and print size that are easy to read. 15 point type is not insulting but makes a difference. • Format tests to reduce reading, especially multiple choice and matching. Make the answers in multiple choice questions short; put the shorter parts of matching questions on the right hand side. This way when the student has to read the various choices, s/he does not have to read long definitions or answers again and again. Click here for an example of a matching question so formatted. • Use visual and concrete information and link it often to the langauge used to express those ideas. • Use the same format/directions for similar kinds of assignments so the student can focus on content rather than figuring out how to do the assignment • Use “student dictionary” kinds of definitions with concrete examples and analogies whenever possible, and • Teach and monitor use of strategies for following directions (such as highlighting steps a
