Knowing the learner

Suggestions for assessment procedures include the following:

• Say or read a series of words to the learner and, for each word, ask them to:
  • choose a matching picture, object or flashcard
  • draw a picture
  • show you the item in a larger picture.

• Ask the learner to follow simple, related instructions in a familiar context, for example:
  • Turn on the lights or turn off the heater.
  • Tell me about two things that you have in your bag.

• Encourage the learner to let you know whenever you (or other learners) use words they do not understand. This self-reporting will help you see how many words the learner needs to learn, as well as which words to target.
• Use a conversational framework to elicit personal information, for example: “I’m Dorothy, can you tell me your name? And your address? How do you spell that? Can you write your phone number down, please? Tell me about your family …”.

ESOL learners who require instruction to develop their listening vocabulary may be following an English language learning programme. Basic listening comprehension assessments may be available as part of the materials linked to a programme. See the list of ESOL resources.