This blended series provides you with an overview of second language acquisition (SLA) theories and principles, with a focus on their application in the adult ESOL classroom. The series includes three facilitated virtual sessions and three self-directed interim activities. Participation in all three webinars and the interim activities is required.
The workshop is based on the revised Massachusetts Professional Standards for Teachers of Adult ESOL, Standard One.
- Novice and experienced ESOL teachers and program directors who would like to deepen their understanding of the principles and theories underlying effective second language acquisition
This professional development activity/course is designed for:
In this series, we explore research-based principles and practices that support the second language acquisition of adult ESOL learners. Our exploration is guided by some of the most intriguing questions faced by ESOL teachers:
- What stages do learners go through as they acquire English?
- What individual factors may impact learners' progress?
- What is authentic interaction, and why is it so effective in language acquisition?
- What kinds of questions, corrective feedback, and instructional strategies can we use to encourage language development?
The answers to these questions, gleaned from ELA research, will help you make effective instructional decisions.
- Module 1: Independent activities in Canvas (9/23-9/29/25)
- Module 2: Virtual workshop on Zoom (9/30/25, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.)
- Module 3: 1.5 hours of independent activities in Canvas (9/30-10/6/2025)
- Module 4: Virtual workshop on Zoom (10/7/25, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.)
- Module 5: 1.5 hours of independent activities in Canvas (10/8/ - 10/13/2025)
- Module 6: Virtual workshop on Zoom (10/14/25, 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.)
Each virtual session is 2 hours; the interim activities are estimated to take a total of 3.5 hours. The total number of professional development hours for the course is 9.5.
Note: Before the course opens, registrants will receive a separate email with instructions on how to access the synchronous sessions via Zoom and how to access the self-paced modules in Canvas. If you do not receive these instructions, please check your Spam folder and/or send an email to nruskin@edc.org. You cannot access the online course from the SABES website.
- Identify key SLA theories and approaches that support effective ESOL instruction
- Identify the learner variables that can impact language learning
- Identify states of learners' interlanguage development
- Describe the importance of authentic interaction in ESOL instruction
- Implement effective SLA strategies that maximizes meaningful student interaction and communication
Upon completion of this professional development activity/course, you will be able to:
Zoom
United States
