What strategy can be beneficial in helping ELLs develop reading skills and vocabulary acquisition?

The strategy of using context clues to decipher meanings is a highly effective method for helping English Language Learners (ELLs) develop reading skills and enhance vocabulary acquisition. This approach allows students to engage with text interactively, using the surrounding words and phrases to infer the meanings of unfamiliar vocabulary. Context clues can include definitions, examples, contrast, or descriptions found in the text that help provide hints about the meaning of a specific word.

By focusing on context clues, ELLs not only build their comprehension skills but also increase their confidence as they become accustomed to navigating texts independently. This strategy fosters critical thinking, as students learn to look for clues and make educated guesses about new vocabulary. Additionally, understanding how to deduce meanings from context prepares them for a variety of reading scenarios they may encounter.

Other strategies mentioned may have their benefits, but they do not offer the same level of direct interaction with texts and overall reading comprehension enhancement. Sequential instruction limited to English could restrict the learners' ability to draw on their first language knowledge. Identifying conversational words can provide a foundation, but it may not be enough to enrich their academic vocabulary. While consulting bilingual dictionaries can be helpful, it might slow down the reading process and lead to a reliance on translations rather than fostering independent