English Language Learners: One Size Does Not Fit All

Abstract

Many general education teachers hold negative attitudes and misconceptions about English Language Learners that affect how they prepare for, instruct, and assess these students. This paper examines what negative attitudes and misconceptions are held by some general education teachers such as the students having a lack of motivation or that they learn better when they only speak English. It also discusses how these attitudes and misconceptions affect English learning students. I also conducted a survey to provide insight on attitudes about English Language Learners that current in-service teachers in Maryland have. Based on these findings and interviews conducted with teachers in Frederick, Maryland, the second half of this paper explains how to better prepare for, instruct, and assess English Language Learners to improve their chances of success in the general education classroom.