Testing

“Would you mind proctoring a test today?” After recent staff cuts, the learning center was a hive of activity. Learners in all three classes had been tested yesterday, but those who were absent still needed testing, so I pulled them from their respective classes. These CASAS tests are administered periodically; they determine if a learner can advance to the next level, and the collective results greatly impact programmatic funding.

Things went really well, though while I was explaining the directions and administering the sample questions, one learner was completely flabbergasted. I tried to explain how to fill in his answer sheet, but he stared at me blankly. Luckily, there were two women sitting in the near vicinity that spoke his native language, so they were able to quickly relay how to pencil in the bubbles as I supervised. Normally, learners are strongly discouraged from using their native language in class, but in this instance, it was helpful to expedite the process as the rest of the students were waiting for me to begin the test.

After the quick tutorial from his peers, the learner appeared to be at ease for the rest of the testing period, but it was a good reminder to exhibit sensitivity for the variety of educational backgrounds in the classroom. Whereas a multiple choice bubble answer sheet seems like second nature to me, many adults are unfamiliar with testing procedures.

Multi-level Classrooms

Spring has brought change to the learning center. Due to tight budgets, a few teachers were relocated to different schools. Typically the learning center has four levels of morning classes, but now the classes have been condensed to three.

It was surprising to walk into the room and see a mixture of faces from what used to be both the level two and level three classes. Nearly every table and chair was filled, forcing me to squeeze through tiny aisles to correct papers. At first, I presumed that the learners would quickly become frustrated, as I thought they were at varying levels based on my previous work in both classrooms. However, as the class progressed, it was interesting to note how the multi-level dynamic played out.

Students were quick to explain things to each other, patiently assisting their partner. As I listened to students relay instructions to one another, I realized what good practice it was for them to utilize English in this manner. Additionally, when asked to do a different type of assignment than they were used to doing, some students surprised me with their ability or inability to complete the task. A few students that were strong in grammar for example, struggled to complete a vocabulary exercise.

It was illuminating to assess students' skills in this new environment. I was reminded of the common disparity between the skills of a learner, speaking and writing for example, depending on the strengths and experiences of that person.

While I am not advocating in favor of staff cuts nor diminishing the challenges of conducting multi-level classrooms, it was fascinating to watch how learners handled the situation. I was reminded of the resiliency and enduring positive attitude of adult immigrant and refugee students.

Repetition

Sometimes it is a struggle to create riveting blog posts after volunteering at Metro North for two and a half years because frankly much of the work is repetitive. Nearly every lesson is now familiar to me, as new learners cycle in and out of my class. Lately, the teacher I work with has asked me to work in a higher level grammar class about once a month. Learning to teach different subjects helps to combat the monotony of sheer repetition.

However, even within my own class, I am amazed at how much the same lesson can vary depending on the group of students in attendance. Interacting with and hearing the stories and struggles of each student is what makes me return back week after week. The relationships formed while working with students makes the learning center feel like a place of genuine community. Seeing a learner understand a concept for the first time, successfully write a sentence or express an idea in English never ceases to be gratifying to me.

How will you celebrate National Volunteer Week?

National Volunteer Week, April 19 - 24, is a time to celebrate the contributions of volunteers across the nation. Here at the Minnesota Literacy Council, we applaud the myriad of literacy volunteers giving their time and skills in adult basic education programs across the state.

Thank you for empowering adult learners to reach their learning goals!

How do you plan to celebrate National Volunteer Week? Share your ideas here!

"It’s hard to identify one element of volunteering which stands out among so many. Working with adult students who are so eager to learn fills me with a sense of purpose and joy; it has been a very energizing, meaningful experience."

-Pat Harlan-Marks
MLC Volunteer Tutor - North Side Learning Center

Registration Open for Sharing the Power Conference - Saturday, April 24

Sharing the Power Conference and Awards Luncheon

Looking for fresh classroom activities and teaching strategies? For many years, the Minnesota Literacy Council has been bringing together volunteers, learners, and practitioners to share ideas and celebrate accomplishments in an annual spring conference. Choice from a variety of short sessions to attend. See the list here.

Please join us, and spread the word to your learners and volunteers, who share the power of learning every day. Early registration is encouraged. Click here for more information and to register.

Book Discussion - The Latehomecomer

The Latehomecomer: A Hmong Family Memoir by Kao Kalia Yang tells the story of one woman's experience growing up in Saint Paul with her family after living in Thailand's Ban Vinai Refugee Camp.

"When she was six years old, Yang’s family immigrated to America. She evocatively captures the challenges of adapting to a new place and a new language, and also gives voice to the dreams, wisdom, and traditions passed down from her grandmother and shared by an entire community."
- Coffee House Press

Read an interview with the author and watch the book's trailer.

All volunteers and friends of the Minnesota Literacy Council are invited to join us for this book discussion in celebration of National Volunteer Week. Participants will have the opportunity to share their thoughts, questions, and reactions to the book.

Everyone is welcome to attend the discussion, whether they've read the book or not, to learn about the issues raised in this compelling memoir. Light snacks and refreshments will be served.

When: Tuesday, April 20 at 6:30 pm

Where: Minnesota Literacy Council, 756 Transfer Rd., St. Paul

Cost: Free

Please RSVP to arunchey@themlc.org with the number of persons in your party.

Tips for Multi-sensory English Classes

Looking for tips to make your English class more multi-sensory? Interested in issues of English language instruction for blind or visually impaired learners?

Check out my co-worker Jessica's new blog: www.eslfortheblind.blogspot.com