TEACHING ENGLISH IN MULTILINGUAL CLASSROOMS: CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES

Abstract

In an increasingly globalized world, multilingual classrooms have become a common reality in many educational contexts. English, as a global lingua franca, is often taught in environments where students bring diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds into the classroom. While multilingualism offers rich opportunities for intercultural learning and linguistic awareness, it also poses significant challenges for English Language Teaching (ELT). This chapter explores the pedagogical, sociolinguistic, and psychological challenges of teaching English in multilingual classrooms, particularly in postcolonial and developing contexts. It further presents evidence-based strategies and approaches—such as translanguaging, culturally responsive pedagogy, differentiated instruction, and inclusive assessment practices—that support effective teaching and learning in such settings. Through practical examples and reflective insights, the chapter aims to equip educators with tools to navigate linguistic diversity while promoting equitable and meaningful language learning.