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Fall 2010
Topic: English for Other Language Speakers

Case Study Subject: Christian, a 5th grade refugee boy reading below grade level and struggling with North American Culture.


 * Introduction:**

English for Other Language Speakers (ESOL) is a rapidly growing demographic in urban and suburban schools. The students that fall into this demographic are ones that do speak English as their native language. Socioeconomic, gender, race are not indicators of an ESOL student. These students can vary in the spectrum from extremely hard working to learning disabled. ESOL student often make errors in their second language with syntax, pronunciation, and vocabulary. Also, ESOL students struggle with culture learning language because much of what modern education calls learning a language involves cultural cues. Even when basic vocabulary is understood, a "breakdown" can happen in communication, for an ESOL student, when what is perceived as standard, proper, or accurate in the first language (L1), does not translate into the second language (L2). These miscommunications can extend from eye contact and body language to personal space and respectful greetings.

Aside from the miscommunication issues, some ESOL students may even struggle academically in their native language. Educators must work very hard to assess the student’s needs and meet them with the correct methods and innovations in technology can be very helpful.