Term
2009
Capstone
Restricted Access Thesis
Degree Name
MAESL
Abstract
Each year, the United States becomes more ethnically and linguistically diverse, with more than 90 percent of immigrants coming from non-English-speaking countries. In order to develop the best educational programs for these learners, we need to understand their diverse backgrounds. This study explores student autobiographies and how they impact mainstream teachers' perceptions, attitudes, and instruction of English language learners. Fifth and sixth grade ELLs wrote their autobiographies in ESL class. These autobiographies were shared with the fifth grade teachers. A questionnaire was administered before the teachers read the autobiographies and a focus group was conducted after they were read. After the analysis of the questionnaires and the focus group, it is concluded that the fifth grade teachers gained understanding of the ELLs' backgrounds, which influenced them adapt teaching materials to the students' needs.
Recommended Citation
Schmidt, Emily, "Impacts of student autobiographies on mainstream teachers' perceptions, attitudes, and instruction of English language learners" (2009). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations. 388.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_all/388