ERIC Number: EJ1091188
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2014
Pages: 2
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1083-5415
EISSN: N/A
The Story of Sam: Advancing Proficiency in Reluctant Learners
Dann, Tammy
Learning Languages, v19 n2 p12-15 Spr-Sum 2014
In this article, Tammy Dann, describes the issues presented by a reluctant learner in a foreign language class and the strategies required to see effective change. The student described in the article struggled to learn or had difficulty paying attention in the Spanish language class. One strategy used was "LinguaFolio Jr." for students in fourth through sixth grade because it created more reflective learners who took ownership for their learning. The language biography packet allowed children to record their personal language learning history, their preferred learning activities and the evaluation of their progress through the use of can-do statements: unit and program objectives written in child-friendly language. Another tool (sample provided in the article) was the addition of a list of effective learning strategies that analyzed the progress used by the successful learners. Dann reflects on the lessons learned from the reluctant learner such as: (1) how to better reach reluctant learners; (2) to be much more proactive than reactive; (3) to pull the kids aside much sooner and talk strategies; and (4) then pile on the positive reinforcement. When progress slips occur, immediately start talking strategies to get the student back on the path to learning. While some kids catch on right away, others need more time, more attention and more love. (The article contains the tools: Communicating in Languages Other Than English, Part I and II.)
Descriptors: Language Proficiency, Second Language Instruction, Second Language Learning, Educational Strategies, Barriers, Learner Engagement, Spanish, Teacher Student Relationship, Teaching Experience, Educational Practices, Elementary School Students, Student Behavior
National Network for Early Language Learning. Winston-Salem, NC. e-mail: nnell@wfu.edu; Web site: http://nnell.org/journal.php
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Education
Audience: Teachers
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A