Case
Language Barrier

I'm very nervous about the next upcoming year. I try to help my students as best I can, but I'm concerned about getting an ESOL student with an uncommon language. Here in Florida, there are usually many Spanish speaking ESOL students, and usually staff who also speak Spanish, but I'm worried about any potential students who speak, say, Russian, or Finnish, or a language that is not common to this area. What are some suggestions you have?

Posted on: 03/01/15 | Views: 930
Solution #1
Visual representations with verbal reinforcement is very important. Repetition is also very important. You might feel silly repeating something time and time again, but every time that you provide a verbal cue with a visual representation, you are helping that student make connections.

I agree. Visuals and realia are very important. Use gestures and pair them with a buddy

I like this solution. Repetition makes it easy for them to remember words.

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Solution #2
Visuals are a great strategy to use for ESOL students. You can also place labels all over the classroom on more common items. I would also find picture books in other languages and translation dictionaries. Technology is another great resource - Google translate. I would also have simple flashcards with pictures and letters the student can practice with, as well as using videos that have the options for subtitles. You will be great!
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Solution #3
Try the nonverbal technique and include many details and pictures. Don't stress as experiencing different backgrounds will further build you into a more well rounded teacher.

Good point. There's no way you can prepare yourself for every language and ethnicity, but I'm sure the student knows that.

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Solution #4
I would try to have various visuals for the students to see around the classroom in various languages, so that they could relate the object to a word.
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Solution #5
I would go straight to trying to learn the basics of the Russian child the same way you are teaching your esol class to succeed. Using audio books, looking up cultural facts, and communicate with the student if both of you can somewhat progress.
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