Ways to Help ELL Students in the Classroom Helping ESL students build vocabulary and become accustomed to the U.S. education system can be a challenging task for teachers, but it is essential for the success and integration of these students in their new academic environment. English as a Second Language (ESL) students may have various difficulties, such as limited exposure to English, difficulties in understanding colloquial expressions and idioms , and difficulties in understanding academic language. Here are some strategies that teachers can use to support the vocabulary development and cultural adaptation of ESL students in the U.S. education system. Use visual aids and realia: Visual aids, such as pictures, diagrams, and real objects, can be very helpful in supporting vocabulary development, especially for younger students or those with limited exposure to the language. By showing a picture of a new vocabulary word, for example, you can help the students ma...