Much of this depends on the age of the students. If they are old enough to understand the serious consequences of this action then it needs to be explains, especially if you have proof. Of course, you MUST do this in private and preferably with someone (and ESOL teacher perhaps) than can speak with the student in their native language so that there is absolutely no miscommunication regarding this matter. Sadly, unless you can find evidence to otherwise say the student did a lot of the work you must give them a zero. There is no tolerance anywhere for any sort of plagiarism. (While I wouldn't outright call this plagiarism, the student clearly didn't write it themselves). Again- depending on the age of the students, take the student who DID do the work aside and speak with them. Explain to them that you are grateful that they are helping their classmate, but doing the assignment FOR them will not help them at all. Offer different methods for them to help the student in need such as sharing ideas or brain storming together.

When you address issue, don't forget that some cultures such as Spanish have a collectivism view where they do not see helping as something wrong. This is evident when brothers and sisters try to help each other on homework or several Hispanic students try to work together on an individual project. We place more emphasis on individual achievement and success than some other cultures.

I would acknowledge the work but also explain to them that it is ok to write their own work that is the only way they are going to learn. Everyone has their own writing style.

First, I would ensure that the ESOL student understood the assignment directions and then I would have the student complete the assignment again. I noticed during my internship that ESOL students look out for each other and help each other complete tasks. During independent practice, if you want students to do their own work, have the students change seats before starting the assignment. Also, ask the Bilingual Assistant to review the assignment and instructions with the ESOL students before assigning the task in class to ensure that all your ESOL students know to do their work.

The student clearly is not confident in her English capabilities but wants to succeed in school. So, I would sit the girl down and tell her I admire her desire to be successful but also let her know that she will truly feel accomplished completing the work individually. I would work with her schedule and offer extra tutoring. I would address the students who did the work for the ESOL student as well. I would let them know that their effort was kind, but up to truly support their classmate, they can help clarify work but not complete it for her.