Why is understanding cultural background knowledge important in ELL instruction?

Understanding cultural background knowledge is essential in ELL instruction because it enables teachers to connect academic content to the personal experiences and lived realities of their students. When teachers draw upon students' cultural backgrounds, they create a more relevant and engaging learning environment. This approach not only fosters a sense of belonging and validation for ELL students, but it also enhances comprehension and retention of the material being taught.

By relating content to students’ experiences, teachers can scaffold learning in ways that make new concepts more accessible. For example, if a student can relate a story or theme in a lesson to events or practices from their own culture, they are likely to be more interested and invested in the learning process. Thus, recognizing and integrating cultural background knowledge ultimately supports language acquisition, critical thinking skills, and the development of a more inclusive classroom atmosphere.