CELL protocol (conferring with English language learners): Supporting ELLs’ reading comprehension in middle level education

Abstract This article presents a protocol for utilizing conferring strategies for reading conferences with English Language Learners (ELLs) as a means to support their reading comprehension skills and develop content area vocabulary in middle level education. The Conferring with English Language Learners (CELL) Protocol emphasizes ELLs’ conversational skills to enhance reading comprehension and shifts from a teacher-centered lesson delivery to a reciprocal student-to-student approach that reflects the following This We Believe characteristics: Active Learning, Challenging Curriculum, and Multiple Learning Approaches. The discussion begins by framing the vital role that reading plays in promoting language development for ELLs. Then, we define conferring and outline the steps needed to implement our CELL Protocol with an emphasis on culturally responsive teaching practices.