A Possible Reason for Low Latino Literacy Achievement

Attempting to fit Latinos from Spanish speaking homes into English-only Cinderella shoes (T is for TREE/arbol) is a losing proposition. A much easier fit would be the use of English-Spanish examples (T is for TURTLE/tortuga). There is no tight ABC squeeze; the material fits the Latino student immediately. There are no building time delays. Students are ready to learn the next letter. Attempts to the contrary discourage the children’s self-confidence and excitement for learning to read. Continued drilling on English names (A is for apple) is an unsatisfactory approach to ABC learning. With cognates (A is for AIRPLANE/avion), it’s adios English word drills! Welcome ABC progress!