"One of the most rewarding parts of this program is working with students over the weeks and getting to observe them grasp the material they are being taught. Subjects like World History and Physical Science contain concepts and vocabulary that are difficult for even native English speakers. It is easy for ESOL students to fall behind or skim through information without fully understanding it.
Sometimes it is a simple picture or the use of a different word that makes all of the difference. After one on one or group assistance, it is satisfying to recognize when a student makes the connection between the words they are writing and the ideas behind them. This is part of why Bridging Cultures is so important.
An example of this can be seen when I work one on one with a particular student in a science class. This student is an emerging English speaker and has trouble speaking and writing. He also is very tired and falls asleep in class due to his heavy work schedule outside of school. Over the past couple of weeks I have sat beside him in class, going through assignments and review worksheets.
By illustrating the information and giving simpler examples I am beginning to see the student acknowledging and processing the information being taught. It is just a matter of modifying the delivery of information in a way that benefits the individual student. "
