Learning a second language at any age or stage in life has its challenges. As educators, our responsibility is to provide a positive learning environment for these students as they struggle adjust into their new society, to learn a new language. This chapter’s emphasis is creating a wholesome environment of learning for all learners. The academic success of second language learners is dependent on the instructional approach, the mutual respect of the student and the learning environment. An important action that teachers can do is respect second language learners and their culture. Children learn in an environment where there is a relationship is developed between student and teacher through simple efforts. Simple actions that a teacher can take such as learning to pronounce a child’s name correctly, finding out where they came from and highlighting certain family or cultural traditions promote a positive classroom climate. The attitudes, motivation and levels of anxiety in a classroom can support or hinder the learning progress of a child. The emotional, social and academic aspects of a positive learning environment ease the child’s ability to assimilate and acclimate to their new home, school and community.
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I agree that teachers should respect second language students and their cultures. However, it is important to teach students that they will have to understand the culture of the target language they are learning as they learn the language.
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree that teachers should take small efforts to make the student feel welcomed in the classroom. Perhaps if all teachers other than ESL or SPED teachers do this students would more likely assimilate themselves in the new environment.
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