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  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!)
I would highly recommend Cristina Igoa's Inner Life of the Immigrant Child. She was an immigrant herself and became the teacher of several immigrant children. She did an excellent job reaching out to each student she taught. I think you made a great first step in talking to Grigor's parents. They know him the best and can therefore help you. Igoa suggests trying to learn what you can about schools in Bulgaria. Perhaps, then you can make some adjustments in your classroom that would help Grigor feel more comfortable. I think this is probably Grigor's difficulty: comfort. He is speaking well at home, with people and surroundings that are more familiar to him; he is probably far more comfortable there. Hence, whatever you can do to help him feel comfortable in the classroom will likely help Grigor begin speaking.
Also, encourage the English he is using in his writing. Let him know that he is doing a good job, and maybe he will begin using it verbally.