Megan Murry
T O P I C :
A Class Divided
Megan Poses the Question. . . .
September 14, 2007
I have a class that is literally half native English and half native Spanish speakers. I realize that I am in a Spanish classroom; however, this still poses more difficulties than one might think. Many times my mentor will give instruction in English, which throws the Latinos into a frenzy. When he then addresses their questions in Spanish, the other half of the class becomes frustrated and loses focus because they are not able to follow along with the conversation. I am curious to hear from others how you address a linguistically diverse classroom, as a whole, when not in a foreign language classroom with the option of reverting to a student's better language. Do you alter instruction in anyway? What other accomodations, if any, are made?
Jazmin Carranza answers. . . .
September 28, 2007
I would go ahead and use both languages at the same time. For example, I would say something in Spanish like "dos mas dos" and then repeat it in English "two times two." This helps both the Spanish and English speakers understand the instructions that are given. It also helps them learn each other's language. You can also choose to use one specific language and each time you give instructions, use signs and pictures so that everyone can understand.
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