Non-linguistic representational strategies

1. Non-linguistic representational strategies Presented by: Lauren Sanders, Jacqueline Thompson and Russell Melton

2. What are nonlinguistic representations andhow can they be used to foster learning? • According to Hill and Flynn, knowledge is stored in two ways: • 1) Linguistic-listened to or read information (actual sentences stored in long-term memory). • 2) Non-linguistic-mental pictures or physical sensations (sight, sound, smell, touch, taste and movement). • Use of both helps students recall and think about information.

3. Use of Realia (real objects) Suggested uses in the Classroom: • Bring “realia” into the lessons-photographs, graphs and charts. • Conduct Demonstrations-actions and gestures matched with words to convey meaning. • Use of Multimedia-video and audio (students connect better when they see and hear something). • Hands-On Activities-Experiments, pantomime, drawing and sequencing of stories. Meaning cannot be conveyed to ELLs through words alone.

4. Generalizations about Non-linguistic Representations: • I. A variety of activities can help students to formulate non-linguistic representations (graphic representations, pictures, mental images, physical and technological models, and kinesthetic activities). • II. Non-linguistic representations enhance knowledge, allowing a students to construct a mental model into a concrete form (pizza slice/fractions), as well as elaborate on how the model represents the concept.

5. Five Recommendations for Using Non-linguistic Representations • Use of graphic organizers to represent knowledge-Venn diagrams, charts, webs, and time lines. The five most common graphic organizer types are (see Appendix A in Hill and Flynn): vocabulary terms and phrases, time sequences, cause and effect sequences, episodes and generalizations • Use of Symbolic Representations-These allow students to make connections and construct meaning and comprehend material. • Help Generate Mental Pictures-Using all five senses to help produce mental images (creating a “movie in the mind.” • Make Physical Models-Any 3-D form can be a model and they can be incorporated in all content areas. The act of constructing an image of the knowledge allows them to not have to depend solely on words. • Use Kinesthetic Activities-Demonstrating comprehension through body movements, or acting things out helps to generate a mental image of the knowledge in the mind of the learner.

6. Non-linguistic Representations are applicable to classrooms of all ages and subjects • Other Examples include: • Adjustable assignment grids-aid for a teachers to assess and evaluate levels of mastery, as well as provide feedback for students through adjusted assignments. • Curriculum Compacting-whereby instructors provide higher level challenges for students at a greater level of mastery. • Kinesthetic/manipulative activities -grouping the students according to ability whereby the students in each group are challenged while at the same time allowed to feel a sense of achievement.

7. Why have Non-linguistic strategies become more relevant? • Rise in the number of ELL Students. • Increased prevalence of autism/ASD and other neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD. “Efforts should be made to ensure that adequate resources are in place to reduce barriers to care for this particularly vulnerable population”-Wang and Leslie