The SIOP Model (Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol)
Making Content Comprehensible For English Language Learners
SIOP is:
- A researched based approach to sheltered lesson planning and implementation that has proven effective with English language learners in the United States.
- A model for teachers to help English language learners develop their academic English skills while learning grade-level content.
- A training for teachers to plan and deliver lessons that incorporate these strategies consistently.
- In the national research study for the Center for Research on Education, Diversity & Excellence (CREDE), and students who had content teachers trained in this specific approach to sheltered instruction-the SIOP Model-performed significantly better on a writing assessment than a comparison group of similar students in classes with teachers not trained in the model.
The components are:
- Lesson Preparation *
- Building Background
- Comprehensible Input
- Strategies
- Interaction
- Practice/Application
- Lesson Delivery
* Emphasis on both content and language objectives
Example Objectives:
- Content Objectives
Example: Unit: The Gold Rush
- Learner will be able to identify the three main routes to the west on a map
- Learner will be able to state at least one distinct fact about each of the three trails
- Language Objectives
Example: Unit: The Gold Rush
- Write 3 sentences explaining how the three routes to the west were given their names
- Tell how the structure of some words gives clues to their meaning
It fits in SCPS nicely along with Thinking Strategies and Best Practices:
- It provides a framework for well-prepared and well-delivered differentiated lessons for any subject area that will benefit all students.
- It offers research-based strategies, rigorous and engaging work, that meet the needs of individual students as listed in the SCPS non-negotiables.
- Most of the SIOP components/features are already listed on the SCPS Instructional Unit Planning Guide.
- With the rapid growth of Second language learners, the SIOP model encompasses the understanding that ELL’s can acquire content knowledge while they develop and improve academic English language skills.
- The SIOP Model will reinforce instructional expectations set out by the district.
- The SIOP Model is currently being used nation – wide (e.g. New York, California, Texas, New Jersey)
- Congruent with curriculum and core academic program
- Takes in consideration diversity in language and cultural backgrounds
- Increases the chance of success for all students
- Offers models of professional development and growth
- Offers an integrative and exploratory approach to teaching content
- Offers varied teaching strategies and learning approaches
- Offers a concrete tool for assessment for reflective teaching
Contact your ESL consulting teacher for more information on having a SIOP PD at your school.