Input,+Output,+&+Comprehention

= Input = Input is that language (in both spoken and written forms) to which the learner is exposed. Input must be comprehensible. Students must be able to understand the __essence__ of what is being said or presented to them.

**Teaching Tip** - Explain as much as possible by demonstration or visual representation (graphic organizers, pictures, body language, objects, multimedia). Repetition and paraphrasing may be needed for beginners. Language learners need to see and hear words in a variety of ways. Using groups or pairs to accomplish tasks is very helpful for ESLs.


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Templates for Graphic Organizers [|Graphic Organizers]

15 Ways to Increase Input [|Input]

= Output = Output is language production. It is utilizing the language and is a part of the process of acquisition. Through output, learners try out what they know of the language, experiment, recieve feedback to correct language use, and learn and analyze the syntax of the language.

**Teaching Tip** - Learners need the opportunity to practice the language. Small groups provide a great way for oral language practice, and repetition of content information in a safe, non-threatening situation.


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Lessons that combine content area learning with the development of oral language skills [|Oral Language Development]

= Role of Interaction = In interaction, a learner will utilize input, output, and feedback. Interaction between language learners and native speakers also provide the opportunity for the learner to make corrections on meanings as well as develop an understanding of grammar and syntax. Teaching Tips

**Teaching Tips** - Create situations where learners have to pay attention to their use of language. Let students suggest topics to be discussed. Provide opportunities where language will be used to express personal feelings. Provide a full range of opportunites so that learners use language in many different ways.


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Activities to promote interactions [|Activities]

= Comprehension = Without comprehension, understanding, there is no acquisition of language. Language that is beyond the learner's ability to comprehend is of no use to him. It is when the learner comprehends that he connects with the language and can then incorporate it into his language. Then the learner can use it to communicate and interact with others.

**Teaching Tip** - Comprehension comes long before any oral language. Allow time for new students to process language. There is a natural "Silent Period" where the new learner is processing what she is taking in. Production should not be forced.

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Strategies for teaching text comprehension [|Comprehension strategies]

Gema Sieh Highland Rim School gsieh@lcdoe.org