Friday, January 30, 2009

Pressing On

This is the second time I have taught a ten year old how to speak, read, and write in English as their second language. I must say that I am thankful as I begin this undertaking again that I have some experience(although it is not that much). I have created a method to this task at hand. Math(thankfully) is a universal language, and since Etsegenet was attending school in Ethiopia she is at grade level in this subject. I have other friends who have adopted older children and they are starting at the beginning in mathematics. We begin each day with this subject. I read all the story problems and make sure that the concept of the day is understood and then E is on her own for most of the lesson. Once she has completed it I correct it right away. That way I ensure she is comprehending most of what is going on. Then it on to the major task of learning English. We have begun with a kindergarten/first grade level phonics program. It is called Explode the Code. When we first started, which was basically the Monday after she arrived from Ethiopia, we only did this subject. It covers the basics in short vowels and beginning blend sounds so she can begin to read. She is very fortunate to have learned most of her vowel and consonant sounds, although many are not being pronounced correctly. We have now added reading aloud, a grammar/English book and handwriting. In a week or so we will add spelling and parts of speech. All in all it is going great. By the end of this school year I will have her tested at the first grade level. Next year we will bust through 2ND and 3rd grade English and the next year will be 4Th and 5Th grade level which should bring her up to speed. This program worked so well with Denis that he is now able to do a high school level American Literature class at a ninth grade level even though he is technically only an eighth grader. We are excited about how she is doing and we are looking forward as we press on.

8 comments:

Unknown said...

I admire you so. Thank you for giving me the courage to still think I CAN bring 2 more home. We have 7-6 adopted through foster care. I feel God's calling to Ethiopia and would like to bring 2 home. I am still praying for my hubby to get 100% on board. I just know it will happen.

Debi said...

I pray for you and beautiful Etsegenet as she continues to learn and grow. She probably will be different from Dennis in learning style and speed, but she will get there. You are truly blessed to be able to homeschool and you are blessed that she has a heart to learn. She (and all kids) are truly amazing. Have lots of fun. It is easier remember the things that you laugh about.
Love and hugs and prayers,
Debi

Melinda said...

Thanks for the tips. We will be bringing home our 9 year old daughter in three weeks and I have been wondering what to do. I currently use Explode the Cod 1 1/2 with my 6 year old son, so I will have to order the first one again for our new daughter. How soon did you start with schooling and did you start back to teaching your kids already at home when you returned from Ethiopia? That is my dilemma, when to start. Thanks.

Thankfulmom said...

You are doing such a great job. I have been thinking of you often. Sweet Pea loved meeting your daughter - I'm sorry I was out of town. I hope we can catch up soon.

Anonymous said...

What a coincidence! We are doing the same exact things with Ezana! LOL Except he's in second grade now...and cutting 3 teeth in a week with 3 more hot on their heels!
You are doing such a great job!
Missing you!
A

Anonymous said...

I am trying not to be jealous of how easy schooling seems to be going for you! Unfortunately, I have not been as blessed. At least not with reading for Kalindi.

I am learning some really good techniques if anyone needs ideas. I know a retired school teacher who has tons of experience in teaching kids with learning difficulties and she has been a missionary in Mozambique and taught older kids (with a poor educational background) to read English. She has been a treasure trove for me! If anyone is interested in the ideas, let me know.

goodbyeordinary@yahoo.com

I really AM happy for you Theresa! I knew E was way ahead with language than when our girls came home.

I look forward to seeing you and all the girls next week.

Lori

Anonymous said...

Where oh where has my little friend gone?
Oh where oh where can she be?!
With her hair cut short and her pants so long, oh where oh where can she be?
Tried to call you tonight...hope you are OK. Had the burden to pray for you a lot this morning.
Love to you, TB!

Anna said...

I didn't know you had a blog! I am so excited to keep up with your family now. I've been wondering how your two new beauties are doing.

Much love to all!

(PS-I'm using kiddos' middle names on mine. Don't be confused!)