The Rookery

I had the privilege to sit in on some of the Herons' spanish class last Thursday.  It was fascinating to watch the students engage in this new way of learning a language.  Señor Witt speaks only in spanish.  If a child does not understand, he repeats what he's said with some additional gestures or with simpler spanish — but he does not use english.

Without exception, the Herons were leaning forward, eyebrows raised, brows slightly furrowed in concentration.  This is hard stuff.  It takes a lot of energy.  But they were getting it.  They were following directions and responding to Señor Witt's questions.

Learning a new language is a perfect example of the discomfort of learning.  When we are pushed into a new area, we are uncomfortable.  We feel awkward.  We often feel silly or stupid.  A few years ago, I started using a five point scale to help students understand that this feeling was a necessary step to learning:

1. Step 1 – You don't even know you don't know something
2. Step 2 – You know you don't know it.  You are aware of it
3. Step 3 – Awkward practice – often the longest stage
4. Step 4 – Proud competence – you like to show off your new skill, it feels good
5. Step 5 – It's hard to remember not knowing, it is part of you

Children (and adults) sometimes balk at Step 3.  Sometimes they say they don't like an activity or that it's boring.  Often, they may try to avoid it.  They're in a stage of learning that necessitates awkwardness and to move through that stage requires risk.

John (Señor Witt) is creating a safe environment for students to try these new skills and take risks.  While I watched, he patiently explained things again and again in a quiet voice with a wide smile.  Students who were having difficulty were encouraged enthusiastically for their efforts.

As a parent, you can support your child's work by sharing stories of your own around learning a new skill (choose ones that end positively, if possible.)  For example, I've been talking to the students about my recent foray into karate classes (I'm taking them with my son, James).  It feels strange to be using these new words, moving my body in what feels like completely unnatural ways and then (gulp) yelling loudly when I make certain moves.  I feel like giggling but I know that that's my way of trying to make fun of my self as I learn something new.  It can help kids know that adults feel this way, too.  It's just part of learning and it's a necessary step.

If your child shares worries about spanish, encourage them to reflect on what they can do now that they couldn't do just a week ago.  Already, students are following spanish commands in the Herons' classroom and reading part of the daily message in spanish.  Their expectation may be that they should be speaking spanish.  In fact, for this year, the focus will be on receptive language – on understanding what's being said and responding appropriately but simply.

Make sure to stop by and introduce yourself to John during curriculum night.  He and the other specialists will have a table in the concourse during the first half hour (6:30-7:00)