To begin, I learned a second language in high school, many, many years ago. I took the class for fun because I think French is a rich and romantic language. I never looked at learning a second language the way I do now. After reading people’s stories, conducting interviews, and reading the text, I understand that learning a second language can be extremely difficult and terrifying for some students. I understand that the process can be hard for many students and that it is sad that many students lose their native language speaking skills. Additionally, I have realized that there is a science to learning a second language. By understanding theories, hypothesis, how the mind learns and communicates a new language, I believe it will make me an effective teacher and has helped in my student teaching. I have learned that ELL students need dedicated support, a rich learning environment with multiple forms of learning materials, and environment where they can feel comfortable to be themselves and safe to make mistakes. Overall, I think the course has been extremely productive. I have discovered ideas, points of view, and concepts that I did not even know existed.

                I have only developed a blog one other time in my life and I am not very comfortable putting my thoughts and ideas on display for the world to see. However, after the initial blog, I grew more accustom to the idea. This process has really pushed me out of my comfort zone. By creating this blog, I have discovered many wonderful things about how people learn and the tools they use in everyday life to help them learn a second language. For instance, many students say that they watch TV shows with captions to help them learn English. It never crossed my mind to do that and I think it is amazing that something so simple can be so beneficial. From my interviews I have learned that those who want to succeed have an intrinsic motivation factor within them that truly pushes them to strive for success in developing a second language. I think to be successful in any situation you must be uncomfortable. It forces an individual to grow, change, and learn. I one hundred believe this activity contributed to sense of community. At times we feel a lone but being able to read others’ ideas, stories, and opinions I realize that we do have things in common and it builds a connection.

                

          My teaching philosophy has not changed. I still believe that everyone deserves the opportunity and right to an education and that everyone should be treated equally. The only difference is that I probably feel even stronger about this idea. I have a bilingual math class and I see the struggle the students go through, daily. They need extra time, things read to them, directions in multiple forms, and they just need a strong support system. At first, when I watched my mentor teacher teach this brilliant group of individuals, I did not understand why there were so many resources provided to this one class. Now I do. I have gotten to know this group very well and I can see immediately which one needs that extra boost of confidence, which one needs a word problem read to them, or which one needs a word problem written in large print and needs the problem worked step by step. It is not that they are behind they just need a strong support system to embrace their learning needs. The text has given excellent examples of how ELL student think, learn, and absorb knowledge. If they do not feel like they are in a safe and supportive learning environment then they probably will not feel comfortable communicating. Overall, this course has been enriching and enlightening.