Adapting lesson plans for ESL students requires teachers to think about their work in new and creative ways. While at first blush the introduction of limited-English-proficient students may seem an unwanted burden on teachers, it is really a blessing in disguise, as it offers teachers the opportunity to see their work from a new perspective and adapt it accordingly. Nothing is automatic for teachers in this situation; from now on, they must consider their use of language, materials and methods much more closely than in the past.
Identify the core objectives of your lesson plan. Write them on the board at the outset of your lesson and explain how you will meet those objectives. Beginning each lesson with a statement of objectives prepares students for the work that lies ahead and reduces some of the tension that arises in long days full of surprises.

Identify the essential vocabulary of your lesson and create a list. Ask students to memorize these words and their meanings, giving them time in class or during a study hall to find these meanings in a dictionary. Although rote memorization has long been out of fashion in American schools, it is a method that many ESL students are familiar with and will understand and complete with little difficulty. Parents will be especially heartened to see their children working with a product of the class.

Make frequent use of the board, writing down the most important words, phrases, definitions and arguments. Require all students, but especially ESL students, to write down in their notes everything that you write on the board.

Model all activities, projects and assignments. Ideally, provide examples created by previous classes. It is not enough to tell ESL students what you want them to do; you must tell them and show them at the same time.

Involve ESL students in class work and class discussions by asking them simple yes/no questions and asking them to point, show or draw the subjects of your lessons. Speak clearly and simply at your normal classroom volume and provide lots of visual feedback and praise for any response. Closely monitor their body language and facial expressions to gauge their comprehension.