Special Cases Helping unique learners Like other populations, ELLs arrive with many diverse needs and backgrounds.  Some common cases which require special consideration are presented below. Kindergarten • Supporting ELLs in Kindergarten This comprehensive, 78-page document prepared in Ontario gives a thorough overview of the issues involved in teaching ELLs in Kindergarten. Special needs • ELLs with Learning Disabilities This 50-minute video describes ways to distinguish between an ESL and a learning difficulty along with strategies for dealing with ELLs with LDs. • How to Address Special Education Needs in the ELL Classroom This short article describes things teachers must be sensitive to in identifying and working with ELLs with special needs.   Limited prior schooling • How to Support ELL Students with Interrupted Formal Education This document gives an excellent overview of the needs of learners who have missed years of schooling and ways to support them in the classroom. Want more? • ELLs with Special Needs: Effective Instructional Strategies  This two-page document gives an overview of issues related to the identification and programming of ELLs with special needs. • ELLs with Special NeedsThis short guide gives an introduction to the issue and a good list of further resources.  Some of it refers to adults with special needs, but some applies to all levels. © 2010 Eastern School District Information and content by Martha Trahey