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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!)
This is a very interesting case. Grigor seems to still be adjusting to his new life. Grigor might feel out of place, and it necessary that the teacher tries to make him comfortable. Maybe the teacher should say some words in his native language to make him feel more comfortable. The teacher could also assign him a buddy that will help him adjust. The teacher has to take action because he or she is the head of the class and the adult figure. He or she has to make Grigor feel safe, respected, and excepted in order for him to open up. Also, the teacher should try to figure out if kids are bothering or teasing Grigor. The teacher should develop some type of "withitness" within the class in order for the students to actively participate.
 
     
     
  Rating
The suggested solution is respectful of the individual (student) Yes
The suggested solution is relevant to the case Yes
The suggested solution is reasonable (easy) for the teacher to implement Yes
The suggested solution is likely to solve the problem/issue Yes
The suggested solution is original Yes
Comments: I agree, it's the teachers responsibility to reach out to the child, and help them become more involved in the classroom.
Rated On: October 19, 2014 2:56 pm
Rated By: Angela Avery