The Importance of Bilingualism
One day a mother mouse was out taking her babies for a walk.
A large cat came to frighten them. The little mice ran and hid behind a large rock.
Mother mouse positioned herself between her children and the cat.
When the cat drew near, the mother mouse said, BOW WOW! BOW WOW!
The frightened and confused cat ran away. All the baby mice came running to their mother. She told them, “Observe, children, the benefits of learning a second language.”
Does your child need help with learning English?
Richardson Elementary has a program for English language learners that provides instruction in listening, speaking, written, and reading English. Emphasis is on vocabulary development within relevant contexts in order to increase students’ comprehension. Students progress through a theme-related curriculum that aligns with the classroom curriculum and are given opportunity to practice English within small groups. Reading strategies and skills for students learning to read in their non-native language are emphasized, along with reinforcement of classroom vocabulary, concepts and skills.
ESL Staff
Teacher Cindy Selnes has worked with English language learners of all ages and a variety of language backgrounds. She learned first-hand the difficulties of being a non-native speaker while living in the Netherlands where she was considered a Dutch as a second language student.
Educational Assistant Bonnie Paulson is a partner in helping to increase the English skills of Richardson’s English Language Learners. Mrs. Paulson has taught ESL at Richardson for eight years.
Contact Cindy Selnes or Bonnie Paulson at 748-6952 for more information.
Helpful Websites for English Language Learners
http://www.everythingesl.net
http://www.colorincolorado.org
