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!) It is essential to build a welcoming trusting relationship with Grigor. I would try to learn as much as possible about Bulgarian social Culture and school culture. Be persistent in your attempts to get to know him personally by engaging in conversation dailey. Speaking with Grigor's parents to find out what his interests are is another good way to make a connection with him. If he is interested in art such as drawing, music or sports I would try to incorporate those themes into the class. Perhaps Grigor would prefer to communicate though, drawing pictures, writing or even technology.I would encourage him to use one of these methods to communicate his thoughts. I would also try to find a classroom buddy for Grigor. A buddy with similar interests who is also welcoming would help Grigor develop conversation skills as well as to help him make friends in class. Using some of these strategies may really help Grigor blossom out of the silent period.