Case
Study English 24/7

I have a new Korean student in my class. I speak a little Korean. He completes his work, including homework. The student appears tired most days and has fallen asleep in class several times. Over the period of a few days and with help from a Korean parent, I recently found out that from the time he gets home until about 10:00pm and again for two hours before school, he has to study English. How do I communicate his need for more rest with his parents without appearing to impose on their parenting and role in helping their son learn English? Further, how might I suggest some other strategies, such as allowing their son to interact with English speaking peers?

Posted on: 06/10/13 | Views: 1337
Solution #1
This is a tricky situation! It would be wise to have person who can speak fluent Korean with you when you meet with the parents. If possible, it would be helpful to provide Korean literature on the importance of these strategies! I would try to stress the idea of allowing their son to interact with English speaking peers, maybe even suggesting that he join a sports team, because sports to not always require vast amounts of communication.

I think it is a great idea to get the student out and communicating with English speaking peers, especially with sports. It will be a fun way for him to learn English - he probably won't even realize he is learning! Good idea.

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Solution #2
I would ask to set up a meeting with the parents, as written communication can be difficult to distinguish tone. I would compliment and thank the parents for the work they do for their child at home to help them succeed. I would then share my concerns about the effect his energy level is having on his academics. To address the importance of interacting with English speaking peers, I would find some literature to have translated for the parents.

If I were in this situation, I would exactly do this.

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Solution #3
This is definitely a tough situation, but I think the best suggestion is letting them know that the child is falling asleep in class and its effective his school work. Suggest apps that the student can play at home and other options of things that the child can do, watching his favorite show in English, flashcards, etc. Encourage them to speak English at home so the child is not literally studying the language all night.
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Solution #4
Getting the new student up and active in the classroom might be a great way to keep him involved. He needs to feel comfortable with his new peers and play is a big step in the Language Acquisition Process
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