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!) I would do as many have suggested and try to connect with the student by finding out more about the Bulgarian culture. I think that that may help the student feel more comfortable in the classroom. I may also look into getting him screened at school for any language disabilities. If he is not speaking in school and you believe the two years of "silent period" is too long it may help to find out if there is not something else causing him from communicating with his peers. I do think it is good that you discussed the problem with his parents so that they are aware. I would keep those lines of dialogue open so that you can continue to talk to them.