Effective Language Learning Strategies for ESL Students

Abstract

Learning the language of a new country is a major challenge for new immigrants entering the United States. In the United States, new immigrants must acquire the official language of English as it is used in daily activities: educational institutions, government proceedings, business proceedings and so forth. It is fortunate that there are many multilingual businesses and communities, in which new immigrants can find some solace and refuge.

The purpose of this study is to explore how language acquisition is best achieved and the instructional strategies that support language acquisition. This study will also explore how teachers supported student learning in different language contexts. Vocabulary acquisition plays a vital role in reading comprehension in both the L1 and the L2. When teachers effectively implement these principles, they fostered student engagement and interest in reading, language arts, and social studies. Effective implementation of these best teaching practices outweighed the language of delivery.