Cool+Tools



__The Web Camera__

Video Chat TOPIC: LAS Links Testing

// Purpose: // To update my students’ homeroom teacher about the LAS Links testing and to plan how else we could use video chat,

// Description: // As an ESOL teacher in an ESOL content-based curriculum, my job is to ensure that my ELLs (English Language Learners) learn critical academic content and are able to demonstrate their learning through writing and speaking, side by side with their peers.

I often pullout my ELL small groups from their mainstream classroom. Some teachers, like Mrs. James, are curious about what we do in ESOL. I make it a point to acquaint them with my plan for the day.

Presently, we are administering the LAS Links Test, the state-mandated English language proficiency exams that all ESOL students must take yearly. Mrs. James wants to be updated about how well/bad her ELLs were doing. Last Friday (April 9th), we had a video conference and our agenda was exactly that. She asked me what tests we had completed so far and what were upcoming. I assured her that her children were on task and were doing very well. We talked about how I grouped the first grade ELLs for the tests and my rationale behind those groupings. She asked me when I would be testing one particular kid. In the ensuing conversation about this kid, Mrs. James updated me on his progress in reading. His Reading Recovery teacher believes that he would test at a higher reading level, but that she still has to administer the test. Mrs. James was concerned how this child might perform in a group of more proficient ESOL students – he might get intimidated. I assured her that if I sense that he is not performing at par because of the test setting, I will test him separately.

Mrs. James said that some of her mainstream L1 students are curious about what their ELL-classmates do in ESOL. A video chat between our groups would satisfy their curiosities.

**Technology Standards:​**

[|**Standard II: Communication**]

A. Use technology effectively and appropriately to interact electronically. B. Use technology to communicate information in a variety of formats.

[|**Standard V: Integrating Technology into the Curriculum and Instruction**]

Design, implement and assess learning experiences that incorporate use of technology in the curriculum-related instructional activity to support understanding, inquiry, problem-solving, communication or collaboration.

​ A web camera is a cool tool to have. To use it to collaborate with a teacher at the other side of the building is not really all that cool though. I like to walk and visit in person. Especially if you are sharing resources. But if I were out and needed to work with my ELLs in a small group, it would be cool to have this option. We need to explore its applications a little bit more. But it is a wonderful tool to have and use...if only I could have it set up.
 * Reflection **