ENL/Content-area teacher teams attend 6 dynamic synchronous sessions, including a planning PLC. Asynchronous tasks are assigned between sessions to build on instruction and encourage classroom application. Optional follow-up remote coaching available.
This course is only available synchronously.
Module 1 | Understanding SIFE & Newcomer Learners
Participants will unpack student learning profiles of a diverse group of SIFE & Newcomer learners in order to identify
both student strengths and areas of academic and social-emotional need. Teachers will use key ideas from the activity
to create a profile of one of their own students using a template with a series of guiding questions we have designed.
They will also explore the ways that life outside the classroom can impact learning needs and how to counteract these
challenges in their classroom practice.
Module 2 | Progress Monitoring in Writing
Participants will analyze a writing rubric developed for SIFE and Newcomers. This rubric was designed to help teachers
monitor writing in English at the word, sentence, paragraph, and essay level while also recognizing ideas in their home
language and using this information to plan instruction. In addition to analyzing student work, participants will discuss
ways to give feedback to students individually and in small groups. Finally, participants will be provided resources for
possible activities to support writing and language development in the content areas.
Module 3 | (2 options: Reading OR Math)
Differentiating Reading Using an Instructional Protocol
Participants experience the steps of an instructional protocol that guides students through reading text in an unfamiliar language. Participants learn how to implement the steps of the protocol through video and discussion. Finally, facilitators will guide participants through a research-based framework for differentiating instruction in content-area literacy classrooms for SIFE & Newcomer learners. Sample curricular materials will be provided.
Scaffolding Reading in the Math Classroom
Participants experience the steps of an instructional protocol that guides students in solving math problems in a language other than English. Participants learn how to implement the steps of the protocol through video and discussion. Finally, facilitators will guide participants through a research-based framework for scaffolding instruction in math classrooms for SIFE & Newcomer learners. Sample curricular materials will be provided.
Module 4 | Integrating Social-Emotional Learning into Your Classroom: An Overview
The primary goal of this module is to create an awareness of how trauma is defined and how it manifests itself in
students in our schools, specifically, the ways it may affect immigrant students. In addition, participants will have
opportunities to discuss symptoms of trauma and how to be aware of signs of trauma in students. This module
prepares participants for our skill-building workshop, Creating a Safe & Welcoming Environment for SIFE & Newcomer
Learners.
Module 5 | Creating a Safe & Welcoming Environment for SIFE & Newcomer Learners
Participants will learn strategies for supporting their SIFE and Newcomer learners in advisory or content area
classrooms. For example, participants will learn strategies targeted to develop self-regulation techniques for students.
In addition, participants will learn ways to promote a positive learning culture in the classroom through home
language use and relationship building.
Module 6 | PLC: Planning Forward
Participants receive follow-up support to create an action plan for the school year.
Module 1 | Oct. 24 | 12-2:30pm
Understanding SIFE & Newcomer Learners
Module 2 | Nov. 7, 2025| 12-2:30pm
Progress Monitoring in Writing
Module 3 | Nov. 21 | 12-2:30pm
Differentiating Reading Using an Instructional Protocol or Scaffolding Reading in the Math Classroom
Module 4 | Dec. 5 | 12-2:30pm
Integrating Social-Emotional Learning into Your Classroom: An Overview
Module 5 | Dec. 12 | 12-2:30pm
Creating a Safe & Welcoming Environment for SIFE & Newcomer Learners
Module 6 | Jan. 9, 2025| 12-2:30pm
PLC: Planning Forward