PART 2: KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT
Students go through a very predictable pattern of academic behaviors as they are learning a new language. The table below is a quick reference to the stages and instructional moves that will provide success to you and your students.
| Stage & Time | Characteristics | Teacher Prompts |
| Preproduction 0-6 months in school “Silent period” | Minimal comprehension Non verbal responses Draws and points | Show me . . Circle the . . Where is . . Who has . . |
| Early production 6 months -1 year in school | Limited comprehension One or two word responses | Yes/no questions Either/or questions One or two word answers Lists/Labels |
| Speech Emergence 1-3 years in school | Speaking in short phrases, simple sentences Frequent mistakes in grammar, word order and usage | Why?How?Explain . . . Phrase or short sentence answers |
| Intermediate Fluency 3-5 years in school | Developing academic language Excellent comprehension Makes fewer grammar mistakes | What would happen if? Why do you think? Tell me more . . . In your opinion . . . |
| Advanced Fluency 5-7 years in school | Near native level of speech Advanced skills in cognitive and academic language | Decide if . . Retell . . Compare/contrast Synthesize |
Adapted from Krashen and Terrell (1993)
Note: Research shows that lack of native language proficiency and or schooling can cause the time frames to lengthen significantly.
If you would like to add a shout out to a colleague, please do so here.
To Glennys Schwartz (CHS):
Glennys amazes me with her keen sense of pedagogy and language acquisition knowledge for both second language learners and heritage Spanish learners. Beyond this, Glennys applies her professionalism with such care and humanity to all her students. She has been a tremendous support to me as I integrate into the Caldera staff this year. -Julie Montoya
To Jessica Colburn (LPM):
Jessica Colburn at La Pine Middle School is engaging her students with a research project (“no Wikipedia, no Google” says Jessica) to construct biographies for a number of diverse people who built our great nation. The interest level is high as students buzz about what they are learning.
To Nate Neil (BHS):
Is there ever a time when Nate isn’t with students sharing his upbeat and kind energy! It’s contagious. What a great role model for Bend High students. And for me as a teacher. Helps me remember what is important.