learning log #3

      

    This weeks reading about identity and culture really out some things in perspective for me and it made me realize that it is really easy to make a generalization about someone because of their culture, but it does not always mean that it is part of their identity. I also learned that just because someone is learning a new language it does not necessarily mean that they are familiar with that culture yet, and we as teachers need to make sure to not assume things about our students just because of where they are from. The story of Gail and Eva was a really good example of not making generalizations and I liked that Gail said how she felt about what happened in the article. I also liked how the twelve month case study was executed and started out with a diary study. I think that the diaries could come in handy as a good reflection tool for the students so they can look back to see what they can improve and what they have been mastering throughout their time learning the new language. 

      The only downside I saw to this article was that it focused on all adults learning English and as a bilingual elementary education major I would like to know how children act in situations where they are learning a new language and have to adjust to a new culture. Martina's story about having her daughter go with her to apply for jobs showed how stressful it can be for the whole family when it comes to finding jobs in a country where you do not speak the language.  I could really relate to this part of the article because my parents came to the US in the late 80's and spoke very little English, my dad said he regrets not taking ESL classes right away because he and my mom struggled to find good jobs when they first got to Illinois and he also said that once they became fluent in the language it was a lot easier to find good jobs. They both also noticed that they were more accepted in the society they lived in once their English improved. Back then it was hard for them to make the ESL classes because the closest one was a 40 minute drive but they went twice a week and it was very beneficial and worth the time. Now in the town we live in there are ESL classes offered right in our public library, so the community has acknowledged that they are needed in any community with people who do not speak the language but want to learn.