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The SWIRL Method
Supporting Multilingual Learners as They Speak, Write, Interact, Read, and Listen
National Board Certified Teacher and award-winning, best-selling author Susan B. Katz provides educators with a practical guide for teaching language in multilingual classrooms. Discover strategies and exercises for speaking, writing, reading, and listening skills, with a focus on understanding student progress and offering continued support.
Use the SWIRL method to transform multilingual classrooms
With the SWIRL method, K–12 teachers can give multilingual learners opportunities to engage in the five elements of speaking, writing, interacting, reading, and listening to English to become confident and proficient in English. The SWIRL Method provides research-based, time-tested, practical activities and strategies. Readers also get step-by-step help modifying content objectives into language objectives. By balancing SWIRL elements, students can practice English in engaging, efficacious ways.
K-12 teachers can use this book to:
- Comprehend integral aspects and stages of language acquisition and proficiency
- Learn how to keep students’ affective filter low so they are more receptive to learning
- Benefit from activities that actively engage all five language competencies
- Discover culturally responsive ways to introduce language instruction
- Encourage language use and development in readily applicable ways and scenarios
Related Topics
Differentiated InstructionEnglish LearnersLiteracy
Additional Information
“This book is an important intervention in the literacy acquisition of multilingual learners! It provides a valuable resource for teachers about the many facets of communication and how to teach them in meaningful ways to overcome language barriers. This book represents a language breakthrough for teachers of English learners—simple-to-follow strategies with great results!”
“Susan B. Katz’s The SWIRL Method offers an innovative approach to teaching English learners (ELs) by integrating speaking, writing, interacting, reading, and listening. Drawing from Katz’s extensive experience as a bilingual educator and best-selling author, the book is packed with research-based strategies and culturally and linguistically sustaining activities. The SWIRL Method empowers educators to leverage students’ home languages, implement effective assessments, and navigate the evolving landscape of language acquisition. A must-read for creating inclusive and effective multilingual classrooms!”
