ELLs and STEM Education

Abstract

Within the scope of STEM-based subjects—Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics—English Language Learners, particularly long-term ELLs, are a demographic that has under-performed relative to their non-ELL peers. This paper will examine several of the issues that encumber ELL success with regards to STEM. It will also address current solutions available locally and nationally, as limited as they may be, in closing that widening gap. The main purpose of this document is to create a social awareness program that bridges ELLs and their community to STEM-based knowledge. By promoting lessons, activities, and opportunities with local programs, this project will springboard home-school partnerships, encourage ELLs and their families to invest in secondary language acquisition, and motivate them to think of solutions affecting their community. Additionally, we will conclude by offering ideas to foster outreach, support service-learning opportunities, and continued exploration in this important area of ELL development.