NYSESLAT

One of the biggest exams for my ESL students is the NYSESLAT, show for New York State English As Second Language Achievement Test. This determines whether my students will remain in ESL or not. It also helps students become placed in either, beginner, intermediate, or advanced ESL. When students are tested, "proficient" they will no longer receive ESL accommodations. The NYSESLAT consists of four parts, Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. It will be taken over a course of two weeks in the beginning of May.
In preparation for this big exam, my cooperating teacher and I have been utilizing class time to review and practice those four skills. I have noticed that my students struggle more with listening and writing. This caused a lot of frustration because students had a hard time answer questions based on their listening. I have realized the necessity for daily practice and reinforcement. I also noticed that students improved their scores as they continued to practice various listening activities that required them to answer questions based off of the conversations they hear.
Their improvement encouraged me and allowed me to see the benefits of teaching. It is often discouraging when students do not perform well and feel frustrated. But, when I see their growth in their self-efficacy and work, it outweighed the times when I felt like students were disengaged and underperforming. When my students began more comfortable and calm about their language skills, it helped me become more confident as their teacher.
I am grateful for my students for these reasons. They have a desire to learn and succeed. Learning a new language is difficult and can discourage students from continuing their education. My students have come a long way and though some of them work, they also choose to come to school. This speaks volumes about who they are and what their priorities may be. I am encouraged and humbled because they had taught me volumes. I do not remember a time when I had to work while I attended high school. My parents wanted me to study. I cannot imagine having to work, go to school, and take care of hold hold chores all together.
I hope that I can continue to encourage my students and allow them to see what they are capable of. I am thankful that I get to know them and work with them.

-Pan Pan Amy