What many fail to understand is that math is not 'just math,
anyone can do it'. There is so much language that goes along
with math, more than people realize. I think many math
teachers are under the misconception that they don't have to
modify because ELL students have to be tested in math, no
matter how long they have been in the country. There is the
misconception that math is a universal language. Yes it is,
to an extent, but AFTER you have learned it. Plus, many
countries teach math differently, they don't spiral the way
we do here. Many concepts are introduced in different YEARS
than they are here.

On 10/29/09, Regina McHenry wrote:
> Any suggestions on how to negotiate modifications for an
> 8th grade students who is a beginning student. Especially
> math class, I have shown the teacher the WIDA can do
> descriptors and the child's level, but he is still being
> expected to do all the academic work of an algebra class
> when he is still learning basic English vocabulary.
> Student is from a non alphabetical language background.
>
> I'm looking for articles, templates for modified lesson
> plans, any information that indicates teachers must modify
> to meet needs of students at their language level. Black
> and white information helps.

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