Seventeenth International Conference on New Directions in the Humanities

Abstract

English language, because of its peculiar structure and strangeness in certain circumstances, is a hard nut to crack for many foreign learners. In Arab countries, this gigantic issue is not easy to grapple with either by learners and teachers. In the EFL/ESL classroom, the majority of teachers observe a limited number of learners who always keep lagging behind the rest of class. Despite teacher’s leaving no stone unturned, they cannot keep pace with the class in a usual manner. These slow learners cannot be ignored; rather they need and deserve more attention from the teacher. Their potential cannot be neglected. Their talent is hidden so it needs to be explored. The only thing they lack is lack of fondness and interest and diversion of attention. If these trends can be overcome and their capabilities are properly directed, they can become active learners. Various techniques and tips have been adapted to make them active and interactive participants in the class. Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP) is an Instructional framework of best practices. It develops language as teachers deliver content consisting of eight components (or big ideas). It also facilitates thoughtful, purposeful curriculum planning. However, SIOP is based on accessible instructional practices. It was quite clear and explicit learning objectives. It also fosters interactive and kinesthetic (psycho-motor) learning opportunities. In the end, SIOP is student-centred and task focused. This paper covers relevant issues about slow learners and how to grapple with this issue in a judicious and sagacious manner.