The Influence of Richard Ruiz

1. Language as a Problem

1.1. What needs to change is how a second language is viewed. Ruiz discusses that in classroom, students that have natural bilingual experience are viewed as being limited as far as their education is concerned.

1.1.1. Not having english as a child's first language is often times seen as a handicap to their learning. As opposed to something that should be taken advantage of.

2. Language Orientation

2.1. Language and cultural practices go hand in hand with one another. Part of the problem with a group of people embracing their native language is the fear of judgment. It feels like the rest of the public does not accept people for who they are and where they come from. Language needs to be embraced and encouraged. Not to mention the importance of staying connected to the people’s culture.

2.1.1. Parents and family members need to encourage the use of their native language in the home. This language must also be accepted in the classroom as well

3. Language as an Opportunity

3.1. Connect with culture

3.2. Being bilingual is a great way to become more aware of what is going on in the community, nationally, and worldwide.

3.3. Travel and Job opportunities around the world.

4. Language as a Right

4.1. The teachers are setting the example for the students on how to treat the students with a different background as themselves. This is not the correct way to go about education at all. Every child deserves an equal opportunity to better themselves intellectually through a strong education system.

4.2. Children cannot be forced to abandon their cultural traditions and practices just to please the desires of a third party.

5. Remaining questions

5.1. How can a community encourage more involvement of minorities in voting, school, etc.?

5.2. How can teachers integrate students of all ethnic backgrounds into the classroom? Would this pose difficulties if English is not the students first language?

5.2.1. What would be an effective way to balance politics and language?