Home | How It Works | Stats Login | Register         Case: Silent Period Grigor is in my 4th grade classroom. He came to the US last year with his family from Bulgaria. He was in 4th grade at our school last year as well. He was retained in 4th grade because he did not develop his English language skills. I learned about a "silent period" that children go through when they learn a new language. My guess is that Grigor is in the silent period. But it does not make sense to me that he would be in the silent period for almost two years. He does not say anything in class. He does not socialize with his classmates either. He can read and write in simple English though. His parents tell me that he acts completely normal at home and he is able to communicate with English speaking people at home when they have guests. This is really puzzling. I have to find a way to communicate with Grigor and discover what is holding him back from communicating with people at school. I need some help. Solution: (Rates are posted for this solution!) First I think you should look into what "silent period" is and research how long it usually lasts. Two years may be a common length of time and he could come around. But, while you research it I would meet with Grigor and his parents to find out what is wrong. It might be the case of him getting embarrassed during class and doesn't like to talk aloud in front of his peers. Meeting with them may help you come up with a solution and find things that interest him that you could tie into your lessons with the hope that he opens up.