What should ELL students regularly engage with to improve their language skills?

Engaging in authentic reading and writing activities is essential for English Language Learners (ELL) because it allows them to practice language skills in meaningful and relevant contexts. These activities often simulate real-life situations and encourage students to use language for communication and expression rather than solely for rote memorization. Authentic tasks could include writing personal narratives, crafting emails, or reading diverse literature that reflects their interests and experiences. This type of engagement not only helps ELL students develop their vocabulary and grammar but also enhances their overall comprehension and ability to communicate effectively.

Additionally, through such activities, students can receive feedback from teachers and peers, which is valuable for language development. The encouragement to write in different genres or read various texts fosters a deeper understanding of language and its uses, making it a more effective approach than merely memorizing vocabulary or consuming passive media like television and podcasts.