Very soon, I will be showing my graphic novel to my ESL 1/2 level. I am excited to know their reactions. I am not sure if everyone can relate to it, but one of the purposes of my graphic novel is to appeal to ESL students, showing them that they are not alone. As their ESL teacher, I have gone through the same experience as they have. They can also achieve their goals if they strive for it.

In order to further apply my inquiry into my practicum, I have decided to create this bilingual project for my ESL 1/2. This project would not only be fun for them and me to read. It will also be an acknowledgement of their experiences and their language abilities. I am taking a risk to allow my students to create a bilingual story. However, this is a way to really experiment if bilingual education can work in the ESL setting. Moreover, it allows students to access their background knowledge. They do know how to express themselves in their native language. They are capable to do so. As teachers, we can teach them new vocabulary by translating the text with them.

I remember I read it from a research stating that it is effective for students to learn another language while they are using their native language too. Moreover, encouraging students to use their native languages at home or out-of-class setting does not diminish student’s sense of identity. They would not feel ashamed because of the language they speak.

I will update this post again after the project is completed. I am not sure how the project will turn out, but I am excited to go through this learning curve with my students.