Abstract
Statement of the Problem: The number of English Learners (ELs) in U.S. schools is currently rising. With this influx of students, teachers need to provide high quality, differentiated instruction to address the variety of language and literacy needs. To increase the chances for school success and language proficiency, these students and families need access to effective resources and ideas for extra practice. The purpose of this project is to synthesize the existing research on ELs, family engagement, and best practices for working with ELs in order to create a handbook for parents. The handbook will guide parents when working with their child at home. This additional practice will target student language and literacy needs and reinforce the skills they are learning in school.
Sources of Data: The sources of data include the research that formed the basis for the development of this handbook and its components. The research consisted of mostly peer-reviewed journals related to ELs, parent involvement, and language and literacy development.
Conclusions Reached: Following examination of the research, the author has concluded that parent involvement and additional practice can lead to positive outcomes for ELs. It is often difficult to determine exactly what resources to provide, how to provide them, and which parents or students should receive them. This project is an offering that can be made available to ELs and their families. Parents and families can choose from the activities provided in this handbook based on what best fits their schedule, interests, and abilities, as well as their child’s interests and academic strengths and challenges.