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By A.M.

Hi Kay,
I have taught bilingual, as well as, regular ed. Newcomers tend to do very well if they are on grade level in their native language. If the student knows his letters and sounds in spanish, then the transition
to english will be that much easier. I suggest you find a good phonics program on CD and teach the child to use it. Remember, he will not be able to understand the english instructions....however, they usually pick up real quick. My old school also had a CD called "My First 1000 Words" which had categories such as home, school, family, etc. The student would click on a word and hear

the pronunciation. The kids loved it!! Also, I suggest you introduce the child to basic sight words at a rate of 5-10 a week, depending on the student's ability. Have the child be able to pronounce, spell, and use the word in a sentence before continuing to the next list. I know it sounds like you'll be devoting alot of time to this student, but you sound like the kind of teacher who doesn't mind that. This student will never forget you. I've had students come back 3 years later, speaking fluent english, just to say, "Thanks for teaching me so much"...It's a feeling I can't even describe.
One more word of advice...remember that after 3 months of being at home and speaking spansish, this student will return to your classroom and probably be in the "shock" stage once again. Expect him to be withdrawn and quiet, and soon he'll open up. Good luck! I'll keep you in my prayers.