Language: it is something all humans
have in common. It is something that allows humans to effectively communicate
with one another, understand different cultures, and build relationships. Language
is something that should be shared, respected, and celebrated. People of all
ethnicities want to be heard and respected. This does not change when it comes
to the classroom. As stated in Wayne Wright’s English Language Learners,
“Teachers need to know their students’ cultural backgrounds and how culture
influences learning at school” (pg. 18). Therefore, I believe it is
critical that all my future students feel cared for, safe, respected,
important, and heard no matter what language they speak and culture they come
from. I will do this by creating an environment that emphasizes what makes my
students unique and meets their needs. According to Wright, “Effective
communication with linguistically and culturally diverse students includes
recognizing, valuing, and drawing on their home languages as resources in
teaching and learning” (pg. 31).
As stated in my video blog, I went
to Costa Rica in 2019. The culture, beauty, and language I witnessed is
something I will never forget. During my adventure in Costa Rica, I had a chance to see a small
glimpse of what learning a new language feels like. From attempting to
understand our vehicle drivers to ordering food at different restaurants,
understanding the Spanish language was by far not an easy task. I quickly became
overwhelmed and somewhat stressed because I wanted to communicate with them
better. Throughout the trip, I caught on to a few different words and phrases and
remembered some from my high school Spanish class as well.
Overall, this trip gave me a new perspective
on English learners because I was able to personally witness what it felt like
to try to learn a different language. I only skimmed the surface when it came
to learning the Spanish language, but English Language Learners are learning
English in its entirety. With this comes stress, overwhelmingness, joy,
confusion, and many more different emotions. As a teacher, I do not want any English Language Learners to feel they are replacing their home language or culture, just
adapting and learning. Like Wright’s book, Foundations for Teaching English
Language Learners, I agree that “… immigrants and their children can adapt
to the new language and culture without having to sacrifice their own” (pg. 21).
I believe it is our job to create a
place where these children that are learning another language can thrive.
People of all languages deserve high quality education and respect, especially
our students.
References
Wright, W. E. (2019). Foundations for teaching English language learners: Research, theory, policy,and Practice. Caslon.
