Here are three quotes that stuck out to me while reading "Becoming Something Different" :
"For example, Corson (1991) has argued that ELLs have been systematically marginalized in school because of language domination, a process by which the dominant culture not only fails to recognize the value of linguistic diversity but also circumscribes the use of students’ first languages." This quote reminds me of McIntosh's "White Privilege". English becomes dominant in schools and any other ethnic groups needs to conform to this language and culture. I feel like I see this in the school I tutor at because most, if not all the teachers, that teach the ESL students only speak English. They ignore the students' other languages and cultures and just focus on English.
"Esmé’s parents were Spanish dominant, and although her mother had taken some basic English courses through community education, Spanish was the language of their home. Her parents helped her with homework as much as they could, even though her father had little formal education himself, and they attended meetings at school, although her father’s work schedule limited his attendance." I really liked this quote because it reminded me of the school I work in. The teacher tells me that a lot of the students' parents are very involved which helps a ton. These students need the extra support not only at school but at home. As long as the parents are making an effort, the child will make an effort as well. I was glad to hear that this little girl's parents made the most effort they could give.
We both picked out the same quote that quoted Corson! Interesting. I agree with your points as well that ESL students are forced into learning strictly English, which is very difficult for them.
ReplyDeleteWe both picked out the same quote that quoted Corson! Interesting. I agree with your points as well that ESL students are forced into learning strictly English, which is very difficult for them.
ReplyDeleteI like how you mentioned the quote about the father's limited attendance and it reminds me about families that I know who are hard working parents with little time to go to teacher parents' meeting
ReplyDeleteYou have a good point that no ESL teachers actually know how to speak Spanish, they are only speaking English in their classrooms, which is good, but I think students would benefit from a teacher who knows how to speak Spanish so there isn't as much of a language barrier.
ReplyDeleteTeachers and students alike would definitely benefit from a common language because even when learning a new one, students will rely on their first one to understand and learn the second one
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