PYLUSD's 10 ELD Methods

PYLUSD endorses 10 effective strategies that teachers use to deliver instruction.  The choice of methods is logically calculated to meet the goals established and to be representative of our beliefs and principles.  These methods are:
  1. Language Warm-Up
  2. Vocabulary
  3. Verb Tense Study
  4. Synonym Frenzy
  5. Syntax Surgery
  6. Grammar Study
  7. Collaborative Story Retell
  8. Three/Four Picture Story Frames
  9. Big Cheese
  10. Four Corner Questions

Guiding Principles

5 Key Language Principles

  1. Students are asked to respond in complete sentences;
  2. Teachers push students out of their comfort zone;
  3. Teaching is focused. It has a goal. The language objective is clearly defined and articulated;
  4. During each lesson, 50% of the time students are talking/interacting;
  5. Students are grouped by language ability levels.

Instructional Features

  • English is taught as a subject, versus teaching in English;
  • Language is comprehensible through visuals, regalia, pictures, graphic organizers, TPR, gestures, role-playing, etc.
  • Conversational English is the focus;
  • There is consistent modeling and usage of correct English;
  • Collaborative writing is part of the daily lesson plan;
  • Daily lessons incorporate all aspects of speaking, listening, reading and writing;
  • Students are in a foreign language program;
  • Students acquire strong English skills to progress to the next fluency level;
  • Students receive reading and writing at their fluency level;
  • Students maintain a high degree of time on task;
  • Students become confident as they acquire competency in English.