ERIC Number: EJ1188095
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2016
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1087-3430
EISSN: N/A
Science and Language Special Issue: Challenges in Preparing Preservice Teachers for Teaching Science as a Second Language
Smith-Walters, Cindi; Mangione, Katherine A.; Smith Bass, Alyson
Electronic Journal of Science Education, v20 n3 p59-71 2016
Science is a subject steeped in specialized vocabulary and elementary preservice teachers may find themselves less than comfortable with that vocabulary. Couple this with their long documented fear of the subject and we have teachers who enter their first classrooms unsure of themselves and the content and thus, less able to prepare their own students. Common challenges these new teachers face include the specialized vocabulary of science, the speed at which words are introduced as well as the sheer vocabulary load of the subject, and the difficulty of English language learners attempting to learn science. This article suggests vocabulary strategies for each challenge and advocates for the incorporation of modified Total Physical Response methods when teaching science content. These suggestions will help science educators relieve the stress preservice teachers find when attempting to learn the language of science.
Descriptors: Science Instruction, Second Language Learning, Second Language Instruction, Teaching Methods, Vocabulary Development, Elementary School Teachers, Preservice Teachers, English (Second Language), Difficulty Level, Teacher Education Programs, English Language Learners, Scientific Literacy
Southwestern University and Texas Christian University. TCU Box 297900, Fort Worth, TX 76129. Tel: 817-257-6115; e-mail: ejse@southwestern.edu; Web site: http://ejse.southwestern.edu
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A