English Language Learners Capstone Project

Abstract

This capstone explores the connections between a personal teaching philosophy and the five domains of the TESOL standards. The philosophy centers around a culturally inclusive, educational advocacy based approach to teaching English Language Learners (ELLs). The subsequent breakdown of the five domains explores how these principles can be applied through teachers’ understandings of language, culture, planning, assessment, and professionalism. An emphasis is placed on strategies that best benefit ELL students, including metalingual approaches to designing lesson plans, educational advocacy through community and political engagement, and authentic assessment practices that serve to close current achievement gaps. The concluding reflection aims to bridge these theoretical claims with plans for future practice.