Level+1

ELL Level 1 = The Beginning Stage
When working with a beginning level student, think of a traveler who is feeling lost. The traveler looks for signs that can give directions, and makes one to two word utterances coupled with gestures to indicate meaning. Similarly, beginning students are easily identifiable due their absence of a working vocabulary in English. Attempting to force a student to speak at this stage is futile and can lead to frustration.

Generally, this stage lasts between 3 weeks to 6 months.

Student Behaviors typically include:
 * May remain silent/actively listening
 * Uses gestures to convey a message
 * Predominantly Yes/No responses
 * Gives 1-2 word expressions
 * Follows oral directions when modeled
 * May only know respond to basic questions like "What's your name?" "How are you?"

Reading/Writing Indicators
 * May have concepts about print
 * Follow picture books
 * May write name

Other Indicators
 * Level 1 students intently look for signs of directions or guidance
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Use 1-2 words or gesture to indicate meaning
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Easy to spot because of absence of English vocabulary
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Trying to force a conversation is frustrating for the student and the teacher
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">The student may act reserved, but is diligently looking for words or phrases that (s)he understands in order to gain context and direction

<span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Characteristic Behavior
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Listening for something to make sense
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Nodding/Shaking head

<span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Key Strategies for Teachers
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Model meaningful gestures to help communication
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Frame questions in Yes/No format
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">When giving directions, model the actions (TPR)
 * <span style="color: #000080; font-family: 'Comic Sans MS',cursive;">Models, visuals, realia (help make communication meaningful and is strongly encouraged)

Resource: Boyd-Batstone. (2012). // English language learner and diversity manual //. (3 ed., pp. 174-178). Boston, MA: Pearson Learning Solutions.