On Thursday (08/02), before class, I met with Soufiane, Samer, and David for a listening session. Today I had a little something different for them...Today, we would watch the Pilot episode of "The Wonder Years." I gave them a bit of background to the show, ie when it was aired, when it was set, narration style, and asked them to take notes on the episode. Specifically, I asked them to write down the characters as they were introduced and their relationship to the main character, whose name I gave them. I set up the English Subs so they could read along as they listened.
I think this session was useful to develop their listening and comprehension, as well as expose them to a piece of American history and culture. They seemed to do pretty well with it and really enjoyed it. I asked them when the session was over if the subtitles seemed to help. All three of them agreed that they did. I asked them if they used subs at home when they watch television and movies. David said he did sometimes, but Soufiane and Samer admitted that they didn't. I think Soufiane definitely found this useful in a couple previous sessions, because he stated that he would be using them from now on.
I would definitely recommend this show for others to use in conversation and tutoring sessions. It is well written and involves life scenarios and concepts that are not to difficult for individuals with language barriers to understand. It is also a great way to expose people to American history and culture.
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