ELL Students and Writing
Students whose primary language is not English provide a unique challenge to the English Composition instructor. It is often assumed that essays will be graded on grammar, punctuation, and vocabulary. However, especially in the case of the ELL learner, we must instead grade based on content. This can often be a difficult adjustment, but I believe we should do it for all learners, not just those with a language barrier. It is not important that they use the most sophisticated language, but rather that they are able to communicate their ideas to their audience effectively. Rather than focusing on grammar and punctuation, we should look at organization of ideas, strength of position, and consistency in argument.
When they get stuck on a word or a sentence at home, I encourage my students to use any of the free online translation programs to help them through. I also encourage them to let me know which words or concepts were difficult and I will then discuss it with them.
