Final Project Brainstorming

 

After teaching for 10 years in an integrated MLL classroom, taking classes to get my masters, and most importantly being an MLL student I believe that students learn most when the teacher brings culturally responsive teaching into the classroom and curriculum.  I do not want my students to experience what I experienced within my educational journey… loneliness, disconnect, and not being valued and celebrated for knowing a different language.  I can make a change within my own classroom and use technology to support my change.






BELIEFS

Robinson: “Humans are naturally different and diverse.” 


  • Students learn when they feel that their identities are acknowledged, seen, and heard in the classroom. 

  • Students learn when they show respect for other cultural and peer identities in the classroom.

  • Students become engaged and invested in the learning process when they can make connections and identify with the content being taught to them. 

  • Students are more willing to take risks in their learning when they feel safe, loved, and secure in their learning space (environment/classroom is welcoming)

  • Students learn when they are able to build upon their background (language (translanguaging) /experiences/knowledge)

  • Students learn when the content is relevant to themselves (Wesch) 

CHANGE 

We want to bring culturally responsive teaching into our classrooms. We want to use this pedagogy (that uses students’ cultures, customs, characteristics, experiences, perspectives, etc.) as tools for a better educational experience. We want our students to see themselves and their communities as belonging in the academic space. 

MEDIA 

and 

TECH TOOLS 

WriteReader: 

WriteReader is a research based online book creating and learning tool to increase student's motivation and literacy skills in the classroom.   This resource is exceptional for MLL students, WIDA Proficiency Level  Beginning - Bridging (2-6),  to use and apply their writing, reading , and speaking skills.  Students can create a book with illustrations from google or take real photos and record their voices to read the text. The students’ books are displayed on a shelf for their peers to enjoy.


Usage:

  • Students will be engaging, participating, and interacting in a one to two weeks beginning of the year “Who Am I: My Identity” Unit. 

  • This tool will allow students to showcase themselves, their values, and their culture. 


Moving forward, this will create a classroom where students will feel a sense of belonging, connection, and a safe zone where they can feel comfortable taking risks in their learning. 

 


Comments

  1. AnonymousJuly 1, 2022 at 5:22 PM

    Elena, I would love to use this online platform! I look forward to seeing your final project. I also teach MLL students and can attend to the excitement they show when we create opportunities to tell stories about their backgrounds. They are going to LOVE this!

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousJuly 1, 2022 at 5:23 PM

    I also admire how you can really relate to your students, being a MLL yourself. They are very lucky to have you. If I had a child, I would want them in your class!

    ReplyDelete
  3. HannahJuly 12, 2022 at 7:34 PM

    Elena - you used these tools and readings well to explain your thinking. I love how you take your unique experience as a MLL student to teacher and use it to your advantage. I have no doubt you will help your students embrace their identity as they grapple with the many challenges that come with being an MLL student.

    ReplyDelete

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