Podcasting to Engage English Language Learners in the Math Classroom: Podcasting Helps Students to Grow, to Be Confident, to Communicate, to Gain Knowledge, and to Develop Skills

The author developed lesson plans in response to the large population of Spanish English Language Learners in Southern California and the lack of use of audio files in the classrooms. This study explores the effects of using audio technology, specifically podcasts, in the math classroom to fill the language gap related to the acquisition of a Second Language. Podcasts provide opportunities for ELLs to communicate, read, and write about fractions. Over a three-week period, sixth-grade students worked through different activities and produced three podcasts.