Task based learning (TBL) continues to evolve as information and communication technology (ICT) inspired tools and teaching approaches afford the possibilities of transforming students' learning experiences by heightening their motivation and sense of autonomy, and in turn, their vocabulary development. To capture this synergy, teachers will need to reimagine authentic learning and task design. This paper describes and reflects on the shifting demands and roles of the teacher in the elementary school setting. An illustrative sample of a series of linked tasks provides a model for pre-service teachers as they take on the work of preparing meaningful work for ELLs who are increasingly present in today's mainstream class settings.