What do you Think?? REFLECT: Do you recall a student who had a “nickname” given because others’ couldn’t pronounce it? What was the effect? What are your thoughts about the Hollywood story provided?
I do recall a student and I think they probably would have preferred to have their name pronounced properly but eventually because frustrated and gave up. When I was in school Jessica was the popular name. There were so many Jessica's that I was Jessie P. We had exhausted not only Jessica shorts but were working on last initials as well. I remember looking at my work I had saved from my childhood and seeing Jessie P. That's not me. That's not my name. It felt weird showing my kids my art with the name Jessie P on it. The effect is it makes you something you're not and it doesn't feel good.
Now What?? OPPORTUNITY TO GROW: What steps can you take in your class or school that will show respect and honor toward one or more of your students?
Making the effort to learn about them and their names and how to pronounce them. I understand as an ENL teacher that there are sounds I will never be able to make because my voice box is frozen but I can do my best to show that I care and make a genuine effort to try and encourage others to try.
