Learning a new language like English can be tough. It’s even more difficult for students new to the U.S., many of whom had to leave their home countries under traumatic conditions. “The biggest challenge for these students is that they are overwhelmed,” said Dr. Andrea Hellman, associate professor of linguistics/TESOL at Missouri State University. “We think it’s just a language … [Read more...] about Creating a supportive environment for English learners
When your faith conflicts with your vocation, you may feel tension. A couple of years ago, Dr. Heidi Hadley, assistant professor of English at Missouri State University, studied the tensions that evangelical Christians experienced in their roles as language arts teachers. “As a teacher, your job is to welcome and affirm every student’s identity in your classroom,” Hadley said. … [Read more...] about Does your faith impact how you do your job?
Growing up in Bangladesh, Sujash Purna was inspired by British literature, reading works by J.K. Rowling, Jane Austen and George Orwell. A love of language drew him to creative writing and brought him to America to further his studies. After completing his undergraduate literature degree at Truman State University, Purna came to Missouri State University to pursue his master’s … [Read more...] about Relating the immigrant experience through poetry
In the state of Missouri, approximately 4.5% of students in schools are classified as English learners. Although this is half of the national average, it’s a growing population. It presents unique challenges for teachers and others in the education system. Dr. Andrea Hellman, assistant professor of English at Missouri State University, tells us about the current … [Read more...] about In-service teacher program gives English learners support
When you think of comics, a complex narrative may not be what pops into your head. Missouri State University faculty members Cole Closser and Jennifer Murvin are on a mission to show the power of sharing a narrative in comic form. Combining forces Closser, assistant professor of art and design, and Murvin, senior instructor of English, co-teach Graphic Narrative, an … [Read more...] about Comics: Not just for superheroes