Week 7 - Videos on Literacy

Videos:

 Theses two videos I have to say made me really happy to see because it reassures me that there are schools out there and around the world that are helping ENL students learn English. Both videos are very similar even though one is based in America and the other in Australia. While subbing I was able to go to different schools and observe the different ways schools help ENL students. For example at the school I work at there isn't any resources for ENL students which is really sad. That's the difference between public schools. Many public schools have the resources to assist and help develop ENL students literacy skills.
 In the American video it was amazing how this school and community have programs not only for students but also for parents to learn literacy. This really melted my heart because it's obvious that this community is looking after families that came to America and wanting them to prosper. The after school programs as well is great with the dancing and soccer and focusing on literacy. What caught my eye as well is how they are teaching literacy skills to students through dance and games. Children especially learn from playing and music and I think these are amazing strategies that should be applied to all subjects and grade levels.

Watching the video based in Australia I found fascinating and it's a school I would love to visit. Seeing how there are only 2 teachers and the aids to help assist the aboriginal students learn English is great. The way they use their native language and topics that they would understand to help them develop their literacy skills. What really grasped my attention was when the teacher said she needs to have CULTURE SENSITIVITY, and what she said about that is absolutely an approach that everyone should have. Learning about other students culture and being sensitive towards it is very important to be an effective teacher. I've noticed that many teachers aren't patient and understanding with ENL students and their culture. Even as a teacher at the school now I've been experiencing negativity from parents because I'm part Hispanic. These are issues that ENL and other students face every day, and I've noticed some teachers not having culture sensitivity and patience with ENL students and it's heart breaking.