Task Cards for Multilingual Learners
WHY & HOW
What are Task Cards?
A set of cards that have tasks or questions written on them.
Why are task cards effective for Multilingual Learners?
They are manageable for MLs because there is only one task per card. MLs only have to tackle one task at a time, so they feel a sense of accomplishment.
Task cards can be tailored to specific content and language objectives.
Task cards make differentiation easy. Depending on their WIDA level, MLs can be given fewer task cards or tasks that specifically match their WIDA level.
It’s easy to add visuals and graphics to each card creating contextual comprehensible input.
How to use task cards?
Pass out a set of task cards for students to work on individually based on their
Zone of Proximal Development. Let them choose 3 out of 6 to complete.
In small groups, have students complete a set of task cards that include a variety of skills. Organize the groups with a variety of WIDA levels working on the same concept. Use this picture for a variety of questions. Make your own task cards with the Free Slides.go.
In pairs, have students complete a set of task cards. Let them choose one of the responses to share out with the class.
Stack a set of task cards at a communal table. Let students answer them when they have free time.
How have you used task cards?
What has worked for you?