April 2nd

Today we did many fun things!

We first played Apples to Apples with other bigs and littles. This is her new favorite game that her and her students play in her ESL class. This game involves a great deal of language and comparing word meanings. I noticed she was more self-conscious in this bigger group setting than when we read one-on-one; when she did not know a word, she would lean over and ask me to help her define it. Also, if she could not pronounce the word, she would initially say "I can't" or " I don't know that one." I think this largely had to do with the pressure and intensity of the game. After I encouraged her to sound out the word to herself, she became more comfortable and confident. This experience showed me how important new audiences are in reading; a child may know how to read, but when there are unfamiliar people listening, self-consciousness can become an issue. Paired reading is also very important in developing confidence in reading skills; it is the first step to reading in small groups and other new settings.

Later today I introduced to my little the idea of becoming a community big and little. I told her we could go to other places outside of school like go to the movies, eat ice cream, play at the park, and any thing else she likes to do. She said she would love to do that! She always says that the time goes by way too fast, and I think meeting outside of the school and meeting two or three hours a week will allow for more experiences and a deeper friendship to develop.

Today I also noticed that I must be careful with my words; sometimes I speak like I would to any of my friends, which is usually much more casual and fast. I think this confuses her, especially when I ask her a question or am explaining directions.

In the library we read a short passage about a fish fry and apple pie family reunion. It was a practice MCA test reading, and because we usually never work on homework, I thought it would be beneficial to do a little bit of assigned reading. Half way through the story she asked if we were done yet, which showed me that she does not enjoy enforced reading! One of the hardest things for her to do is reading difficult English words. A strategy I encouraged her to use is splitting the word (covering one half with her finger) and trying to sound it out that way. We then asked each other questions in an interview format. It was fun to see her act "professional" when she asked me when I was born and what my favorite things to do are.

She then read my journal entry (she did not bring hers). Even if she does not have hers for me to read, it is still beneficial for her to learn about what I am doing throughout the week. I know she thinks about that because she always asks questions.

Next week I will bring some books of interest; I know she loves soccer and other sports. Comical books and suspenseful books also grab her attention. Games like apples to apples that are both social and educational are also beneficial.

I can't wait until the field trip to WSU. She said she was going to come; her parents just had to put the letter in the mail!