Paige Smith

Abstract

For many English language learners (ELL), learning English is an ongoing process. When
learning a new concept, it may sometimes be easier for the student to gain
comprehension through learning in their native language. Ideally, ELLs should be
assessed using measures that are valid in terms of their sensitivity to culture, and to the
amount of exposure to English these students have had. To assess an ELL student in a
way that is sensitive to their culture, an educator would need materials in that language.
The number of method books available in languages other than English are slim. This
calls for an increase in available teaching materials in multiple languages, specifically
Spanish. The Essential Elements 2000 Bb Clarinet Book 1 method book was translated to
Spanish, a pronunciation guide was created to help non-Spanish speaking teachers
communicate with their native Spanish-speaking students, and surveys were given to
students, parents, and band directors to gather information on language use at home and
in the classroom. The combination of the translated method book and pronunciation
guide helped the Clarinet students make better progress by using materials available in
their native Spanish language.… (más)