How do you adapt your feedback and grading to reflect the progress and goals of your ELs?

In my experience, feedback will depend on the task and level of the ELs’ proficiency. For example, with written feedback, beginner learners may benefit from error correction that is detailed to help them to recognize common patterns of grammar and mechanics, such as punctuation, collocation, and verb tense. More advanced ELs, on the other hand, might benefit from learning codes that match a specific error and then receive feedback based on the code. Regardless of the level of proficiency, however, the best type of feedback is one that does not overcrowd the page with corrections, but one that challenges the EL to notice their errors so they may learn to be their own editors and proofreaders.

Adapto mis comentarios y calificaciones para reflejar el progreso y los objetivos de mis Estudiantes de Lengua (EL) mediante una evaluación continua y personalizada. Inicio identificando las fortalezas individuales y las áreas de mejora, brindando retroalimentación específica y constructiva. A lo largo del curso, ajusto mis comentarios para destacar los avances logrados y alentar el desarrollo continuo. Uso un lenguaje positivo y motivador, incorporando emojis 😊 para resaltar logros y 💪 para enfatizar áreas de esfuerzo. Además, alineo mis evaluaciones con los objetivos establecidos, asegurando que cada estudiante comprenda claramente su progreso y los pasos necesarios para alcanzar sus metas académicas.

Adjust feedback for English Learners by focusing on language development goals, providing specific praise and constructive comments, and considering individual proficiency levels to recognize progress effectively.

To promote effective objective-based feedback, clear rubrics and models should be employed to help language learners monitor their progress and assess themselves against objectives. Since each learner improves differently, some mastering certain aspects of the language more quickly than others, granular objectives can be used to personalize the learning process and enable students to focus on critical areas that will allow them to flourish personally. This skill of personalization will benefit learners not only in language learning but also in other areas of study, as it fosters strong self-directed learning skills.

Technology today gives us options. Word documents, for example, allow us to insert track changes and comments. However, if it is a reoccurring mistake, I might color code it rather than make a correction or offer a suggestion. Parallel structure issues can be highlighted in blue, for instance. This way, the student can learn to self-correct with only a visual prompt. I have also used audio feedback for written work. Voice recordings can guide a student through a revision, and positive vibes are felt more strongly through spoken encouragement than through text. No matter what mode I use, I try to balance correction with positive feedback, acknowledging the strengths of a submission.