Scenario Response 2

If my classroom got a new student from a different culture there are many methods I could and would use to help them transition.  First, I would be very careful about ways of welcoming them.  I would let the student show me whether or not they were comfortable with eye contact or hand shakes.  Smiling is safe in most cultures and even if the student cannot understand what I am saying, if communication is made in soft, friendly, tones, it is less threatening.  I would find out what I could about the culture and try to incorporate into the class.  I would also write words in English and tape them to objects around the room so they could start seeing words and making connections at their own pace.  If I had a student in class who spoke their language, I would encourage that student to help translate.  If not, I would try to learn a few basic words myself in their language to help them know they are welcome.  The main methods will be compassion and respect.