Teaching ESL

Teaching English as a Second Language is learning English all over again, from a different point of view. How to reach students? Get into their heads to see what they really understand? I notice different things every night. As students get more comfortable in class, laugh more, make more friends, their relationship with the language changes as well. Students generally group themselves by language, country or culture, but not always. There was the Israeli student, lively and beautiful, who made friends with all the young guys from El Salvador. She spoke some Spanish; they always managed to communicate. She lit up the class with her presence and created a lot of positive energy in the room. There was an older woman who was eccentric in her way, full of personality and life. She also brought so much to the class. I think of the many students I have known through the years and wonder where they are now. Did they continue with their studies? Get married? Have children? Get new jobs? ESL is a gateway through which many new Americans pass. The experience we give them can be one more productive, positive, even elevating use of their time as they work on building a life in a new country. West Valley Occupational Center is a good place to have that experience.