Strengths and Challenges for Diverse Learners Bringing Cultural and Linguistic Opportunities to the Classroom

Who is This Student? Is there an individual in your classroom like this? Female Student One Age 14 Ninth Grade in the 2015/2016 school year

Languages Home: Only Spanish is spoken with immediate family members. Parents are able to understand some English, but only a limited amount. School: Both English and Spanish are equally spoken. However, English is primarily read despite the fact that Student One can read in both languages as well.

Socioeconomic Status Education of Parents: Both have a formal education through 8 th grade Wealth: Economically disadvantaged Father’s Occupation: Manages dairy farm Residence: Rural

Academic Challenges In School Academic vocabulary Listening Comprehension Reading Comprehension, especially non-fiction material Out of School Misses school from time to time to translate for family and friends Unsure where to get assistance if help is needed outside of school hours

Funds of Knowledge Linguistic Strength Student One has learned two different patterns of words by learning two different languages. Challenge and Solution Student One has not obtained grade level vocabulary or reading comprehension skills. Providing material written in either Spanish or English will strengthen this skill.

Practical Funds of Knowledge Student One in also involved in activities outside of school, karate to be more specific. This also provides another chance for additional connections, but also builds leadership skills.

Funds of Knowledge from family Benefits and Challenges Parents have stated at IEP meetings there are high educational expectations set at home in hopes of an easier life for their daughter. Student One explains her work to parents, so they can learn as well. Parents are not sure how to ask for educational assistance. Beneficial Idea!!! Family Journal: This journal goes home with student and parents are allowed to write down questions and concerns in Spanish. The journal comes back to class, answers are written and then conveyed back to parents.

Cultural Funds of Knowledge Student One, along with her family, has resided in two different countries. This allows her to make more connections with her experiences.

Tips for Educators Identify experiences that students and parents can offer (formally or informally). Get to know the district and surrounding areas where you teach. Make home visits. Be proactive: Find ways to integrate other cultures into your lessons. Allow students time and opportunities to discuss their connections.

Continued Tips for Educators Reflect on areas that need improvement. Continue collaboration with students, family members and the community in order to find information that can enhance lessons. For additional information see the following articles. Amaro-Jiminez, C., & Semingson, P. (2011). Tapping into the funds of knowledge of culturally and linguistic diverse students. Retrieved July 8, Beiset, L. (2013). Getting to Know Your ELLs: Six Steps for Success. Retrieved July 7, 2015 from