Mod 2 Discussion: Getting to Know Our Students and Why

Why is it important to get to know, and understand, our ELLs? What role does culture play? I think one of the most important reasons we as teachers need to get to know our ELL students is ensure that they feel that they can succeed in our classroom. Since their home culture shaped their attitudes towards education and how to learn and what is acceptable in the classroom, understanding their home culture will give us better insight into not only what drives them (their values, etc.), but how to use that information to motivate them in this new setting. Acknowledging what is important in their home culture will also help reduce their overall anxiety, their culture shock.