VANCOUVER, Wash. Gisela Ernst-Slavit, professor of education and associate dean for diversity and international programs, is the co-editor of a seven-volume series of case studies showing how teachers are integrating common core state standards for diverse learners with different learning needs. The books in the series were published by Corwin during 2013 and 2014.
The series is titled Academic Language in Diverse Classrooms. Each of the first six volumes is devoted to a specific content area (English language arts or mathematics) and grade level (K-2, 3-5 and 6-8). The seventh, Definitions and Contexts, released this spring, discusses the overall philosophy.
Academic language is used in the classroom and other formal contexts, such as books, and helps with development of an adult vocabulary. It differs from the language people use at home, with friends or at work. For children new to the English language, learning the words and the content at the same time is a huge challenge.
English language learners have to learn English, but in addition they have to learn the language of science, of math, of social studies, of English language arts, Ernst-Slavit said. Academic language is like a third language for them.
How can teachers help these students succeed? We cant just tell them whats important, Ernst-Slavit said. We have to bring it alive.
The case studies, written by practicing teachers and academics, offer detailed guidance in using students past family and cultural experiences to help them connect with academic words and concepts. The books have already garnered rave reviews from experts in the field.
Ernst-Slavit and the series lead editor, Margo Gottlieb, have often collaborated in the past. Several years ago, they worked together on drafting national standards for English language learners. Gottlieb is the lead developer for the World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
And despite the pace of publishing seven volumes in two years, Ernst-Slavit said, We are still very good friends.
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