1.) In order to make all kids feel comfortable and part of the class I always ask everyone to participate. For my English Language Learners I give them materials in advance, lists of vocabulary, altered assignments, and more lead time.
If they are going to read to the class or perform they have their materials with them and they know exactly what to read ahead of time so that they may practice. I have no problem with kids using the translation devices. I also try to break down words and use synonyms when teaching. I also tell them repeatedly that being bilingual is a huge undertaking and they should be proud of how far they have come already. Positive affirmation is used constantly. We also try to show them that we make mistakes and that English is always changing the rules for no reason.
2.) I love the rule, "do not ask them to speak for their entire culture." I am so glad she said this because I see it all of the time. This is a micro-agression and absolutely makes kids feel singled out. I cannot stand when teachers do this and feel like they are progressive. It is the worst. That being said, by giving kids extra time, easier notes, and things that only require fill in the blanks vs entire sentences, it has made it easier for the English language learners to pay attention to the lesson and find where I am. Since they know that they can do some word recognition with what is already on their papers. Listening, finding what I am talking about on the paper and filling it in, is too much at once.
Fill in the blank style has really helped the kids stay with me and I can easily see based on the blanks when to slow down or revisit soemthing.
If they are going to read to the class or perform they have their materials with them and they know exactly what to read ahead of time so that they may practice. I have no problem with kids using the translation devices. I also try to break down words and use synonyms when teaching. I also tell them repeatedly that being bilingual is a huge undertaking and they should be proud of how far they have come already. Positive affirmation is used constantly. We also try to show them that we make mistakes and that English is always changing the rules for no reason.
2.) I love the rule, "do not ask them to speak for their entire culture." I am so glad she said this because I see it all of the time. This is a micro-agression and absolutely makes kids feel singled out. I cannot stand when teachers do this and feel like they are progressive. It is the worst. That being said, by giving kids extra time, easier notes, and things that only require fill in the blanks vs entire sentences, it has made it easier for the English language learners to pay attention to the lesson and find where I am. Since they know that they can do some word recognition with what is already on their papers. Listening, finding what I am talking about on the paper and filling it in, is too much at once.
Fill in the blank style has really helped the kids stay with me and I can easily see based on the blanks when to slow down or revisit soemthing.