I enjoyed reading this study. Not only was Perry thorough in her research (interviews, observations, time tutoring, etc.), but also her style of writing was clear and well organized by topic.
As I was reading, I was reminded of a book I read recently called The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down. What I found fascinating were the similarities and differences between that text and the information in this study. In the book, Hmong refugees, like the African refugees, relocated to the US after violence and persecution. The Hmong valued storytelling just as the African refugees. Differently, these Hmong refugees did not place much value on US education whereas the African refugees embraced US education. Thinking about these two groups of refugees made me consider my students. None are refugees, but many are in the same position as the refugees in that they have relocated from different countries, places that value things-like storytelling-that are not necessarily valued in the US classroom. Even though the curriculum is set and time is tight, should I somehow make time for storytelling and other literacies that so valuable to my students?
Another item of interest to me that Perry made in her study was that ‘oral storytelling relates to print literacy development.’ I believe this to be true. In my classroom this year, the majority of students were ELL’s. Writing was so difficult. In order to help the students with their writing (narrative), the ESL teachers and I had the students tell their stories verbally to one another. Once the students were able to say their stories first, they were able to write most of it down. I thought talking-before-writing was a good practice in teaching writing, but now, after reading this study, I feel confidant and encouraged that it is.
Laura Corbello
Comments (3)
Laura,
I felt it was easier to read Perry's research because it was organized. I am glad you mentioned the book because I had a Hmong friend who did flee here. Luckily, her family valued education and she went to college. I I was honestly surprised that the refugees cared and valued education as much as they did. I am not saying this in a judgmental way but from a teacher's perspective who has seen parents here in the U.S. not even care about their child's education. But it is clear to see that the people of Sudan have been extremely literate for years! I would imagine more so than us when entering school and maybe even throughout school.
Posted by Candace B Heffinger | June 18, 2010 4:49 PM
Posted on June 18, 2010 16:49
Laura,
I am a long time fan of your posts and thoughts, but I believe this to be the first time I have posted a response. I really like the tie in of the Sprit Catches You and You Fall down, as this represents yet another culture that organizes a great deal of its literacy from the oral tradition. I also found your ELL discussion interesting and wondered if you have any other techniques that you like? I am always looking for new ways of doing the impossible (teaching).
William Byland
Posted by William Byland | June 18, 2010 7:27 PM
Posted on June 18, 2010 19:27
Wow what a great connection you made with this text. I haven't had many experiences with ELL students at my school, but I would agree that it would be easier for them to tell stories aloud first. I know with teaching second graders that sometimes it is easier for them to talk through their thoughts as well before writing. I wish you continued success with this method.
Posted by Odessa Scales | June 18, 2010 8:17 PM
Posted on June 18, 2010 20:17