Document Type

Presentation

Publication Date

4-26-2018

Advisor

Nelsy Echavez-Solano, Hispanic Studies

Abstract

In the United states, about 6 million children speak Spanish as their first language. For those children it may be hard to learn English easily and/or effectively. Having students learn English effectively gives Spanish speaking students the chance to show all their abilities in English speaking classrooms. In order for students to feel connected and learning English in effective manners, teachers can focus on three methods to help their bilingual students. Specifically, with Spanish speaking students, teachers can focus on connecting with the student through the language, culture, and a good student-teacher relationship. Teachers can help teach English effectively to Spanish speaking students by learning the language, not fluently but enough to help the student with directions and basic phrases needed in a class room. By understanding and even involving the culture in classrooms helps the student form connections to English and Spanish. Once more connections are formed in the classroom, a student can also create a positive and strong relationship with their teacher. With that relationship, their interactions within the classroom change and they feel more confident about their learned English and what they are learning. With just three small factors to apply to a classroom, Spanish speaking students are able to interact and work better in their classrooms.

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