Home | How It Works | Stats Login | Register         Case: The Newcomer Ivan came to my 5th grade classroom two weeks ago. He moved to the United States with his parents about a month ago from Russia. Both of his parents are graduate students at the local university. Ivan speaks no English at all. There are no other Russian speakers in our school, so I cannot use a translator when I try to communicate with Ivan. So, I decided that I would give him time learn some English through everyday interactions with me and his classmates. Two days ago I heard Ivan using the "F-word" repeatedly on the playground and in the classroom. I do not exactly know how he learned the word but my guess is that one of his classmates taught it to him as a joke. I have to address this problem. I have to find a way to explain to Ivan that this word is not acceptable. I also have to find out who taught this to him. I cannot allow these types behaviors in the classroom. I am not sure if I should involve the parents. I need to do something, but what? Solution: (Rates are posted for this solution!) I would let the parents know about the situation. If they are attending a local graduate program, chances are they speak English well enough. If not, a translator might be needed. Just explain that you know Ivan is still adjusting and trying to learn English, but that the language he is using is inappropriate for school and if they could encourage him to not use that word anymore.