[Drama Mama]

We have just received a new student from Isreal. She is in 7th grade. She speaks very few words in english. Can any of you direct us to some resources to help her (and us!)?

She has only been in America for two weeks and is completely lost. We are translating assignments into Hebrew when it is possible, using the computer.

Any suggestions? Our district does not have a ESL/ELL teacher.

[jch]

Do you have a synagogue in your community? Perhaps the rabbi could help or network you to someone who can.

[Drama Mama]

there is a synagoge in the neighboring town.

Is there any way to give this student access to a hand-held translator? (For that matter, do those translators work in Hebrew?) I have met students from other countries who use them on occasion. Unfortunately, they're not cheap. Also, I'm surprised there isn't an ELL/ESL teacher. Seems like it would be required, especially if this student winds up with an instructional plan... Build vocabulary as quickly as possible; label things, use the same terms for things, etc. Modify her schoolwork to accommodate for the language issue. (How is she doing schoolwork? In Hebrew? Who's grading it?) Boy, lots to consider here...