Double Entry Journal # 9 (Getting to Know Your Students)

It is important to encourage learners to use their primary language or code switching during literacy events because it allows students to feel more comfortable with the reading and writing activities. It also provides the opportunity for language development. Code switching allows students to draw upon their own vernacular and broaden their language skills. It is important to allow students to use code switching because it is a great to tool to use for transference of meaning. I feel that this should apply to the students of Appalachian dialects. Drawing on students' backgrounds, knowledge, and language is important in that it gives students meaning and acceptance. Giving students the freedom of literacy allows them to express their ideas and beliefs without the fear of embarrassment.

Reading aloud from a teacher centered perspective is when students gather an understanding from the teacher during reading or listening activities. Students interact solely with the teacher. The teacher initiates interaction with students through questions. Reading aloud from a student centered perspective is much different than the teacher centered perspective. Students read or listen to stories and ask questions or have conversations to make connections to the book. 

Related Resource:
I found an article that discusses how teachers at the Appalachian Writing Project are studying Appalachian dialect and the ability to code-switch in student writing and how to support students. Click here to read the article