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!) Every immigrant child's experience is different, and it seems that Grigor is still in the silent period. If he is still overwhelmed by hearing and speaking English, he will have difficulty speaking up in class or social situations. I would pair Grigor with another quiet, sensitive student who can help him understand instructions or assignments that are complicated. I would also meet individually with Grigor on a regular basis, and give him positive feedback about his English and academic skills. Grigor should be receiving ESOL services, and if he is, this may give him a place to feel more comfortable around others who are not proficient with English. If Grigor is willing, I would invite him to share with his classmates about Bulgaria, by bringing in photos, drawing pictures, sharing words from his native language, or writing about his homeland. I would do this in the context of having all students share about their homes and families, so that he is not stigmatized for being an immigrant. Because Grigor is able to speak basic English, I would ask him directly if there was anything you could do to help him feel more comfortable. I would also keep lines of communication open with his parents if they have any suggestions for helping him to be more comfortable.