What teaching practice best enhances ELLs' reading skills and vocabulary acquisition?

Providing context to determine meanings is vital for enhancing English Language Learners' (ELLs) reading skills and vocabulary acquisition. When teachers present new vocabulary within a specific context—such as through stories, discussions, or visual aids—it allows ELLs to make connections between the words and their meanings. This approach taps into the students' prior knowledge and experiences, helping them to infer meanings based on how the words are used in sentences or scenarios.

Furthermore, understanding vocabulary in context supports deeper comprehension of texts. It enables learners to grasp not just the definition of a word, but also its usage and connotations, which is essential for effective communication and literacy development. This strategy also encourages engagement with the material, as students can see the relevance of new vocabulary in real-life situations, making learning more meaningful and enjoyable.