Effective Literacy Website #7

Angela B. Claros

ED638-40

Dr. M. Rivera

IRA Newsletter Weekly Project: Effective Literacy Website #7

            Colorin Colorado (http://www.colorincolorado.org/) was created primarily for teachers and families of English Language Learners, but as with most websites of this type, content can be found useful to all learners and all grade levels when adapted to fit learner needs. The website focuses on Hispanic ELLs, but with Guam’s increasingly diverse community, many teachers can find content useful with encouraging reading and building a sense of community and partnership between schools and families. Colorin Colorado is partnered with the American Federation of Teachers so AFT teachers provide resources such as best practices, updated information regarding ELL.

            Before learning can take place, teachers must first build routines and classroom community. Colorin Colorado provides tips for doing this in their easy-to-navigate website. There is a great section on literacy instruction that includes articles, blogs, and videos about specific topics related to literacy.  Most notably, Colorin Colorado supports families by providing tips and strategies for promoting literacy in the home and considers children of all ages from infancy and above. Parents can also find a section on “Raising Bilingual Kids” that includes articles, videos, frequently asked questions, and recommended resources.

            This website promotes literacy for bilingual or multilingual students which is great for our island because of all the students who speak a language other than English. I grew up with a Japanese-speaking mother so I found some difficulty growing up as a bilingual student. This website is great for students like myself trying to find a balance. Teachers can find resources to embrace diversity and find ways for students to use their bilingual skills to support and not hinder their growth in literacy.