Using the Language Experience Approach With English Language Learners: Strategies for Engaging Students and Developing Literacy

Based on their experience and success in using the Language Experience Approach (LEA) with English language learners, authors Nessel and Dixon provide K-12 educators with a helpful guide on how to implement LEA in their own classrooms. The authors begin with an overview of the approach and why they believe it is so effective with ELLs. They then offer strategies to use with students of varying proficiency and confidence levels, as well as targeted strategies for using LEA in both reading and writing instruction. The authors conclude with a series of lessons and examples that show how to use LEA to integrate reading, writing, speaking, and listening activities in the classroom.