What Do We Really Learn in That Extra Language Class?

In our bilingual school, we have an extra class called Native English, that focuses on deeper language skills. I wanted to learn what actually happens in this course, so I interviewed the teacher,  a student, and reflected on my own experience.

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During the Native English course students sometimes do creative works about the books they have read. For example in this picture, students have painted cookies based on the book.

I interviewed Kirsten Eskelinen, our school’s Native English teacher, and Isabella, a ninth grader who is currently taking the Native English course. They both gave a glimpse into the class and what it’s like being part of it.

Kirsten explained that Native English is a creative literature class for students who enjoy reading. Regular English classes do not have much time for literature, so this class focuses on novels, short stories, and poetry. It began twenty years ago for native speakers but is now open to everyone. There are no exams, so students can relax and enjoy books. In 7th grade, students read classics like Edgar Allan Poe. In 9th grade, they study the works of William Shakespeare and read a novel in depth. Students also create a book report and sometimes take lessons outside to places like forests or museums.

The goal is to help students think creatively and connect with stories and characters. There is no grammar teaching; only reading, discussion, and creative work. Reading improves vocabulary and overall English skills. The class atmosphere is calm and positive, and students feel confident and happy to be there, even though lessons are sometimes scheduled at difficult times.

At the end of the year students get to choose books to read to make creative or non-creative book reports on. Here’s some examples of previous creative book reports. 

Isabella enjoys the activities in the course, especially reading books, which they usually do. Her favorite book so far has been Born a Crime by Trevor Noah, which they read at the start of ninth grade. She has learned a lot this past year, and one topic that really stuck with her was apartheid, which was discussed in the book she mentioned earlier. She finds the course easier than she expected because the teacher is really nice and chill, which she feels lucky about.

Her favorite part of the lesson is when the teacher brings candy and they get to eat it. She feels a little more confident speaking English now, especially when talking with friends. Isabella thinks more students should join the class because they need more people. She also likes studying in both languages, saying it feels nice and different.

Here’s some more creative activity done in the class. Not painting cookies this time but cakes! This concept is also really popular for the end of the year book report.

After talking to both the teacher and the student, I realized this course is more than just reading and speaking. It helps us use language in a deeper way and gives us confidence we can use outside school. For me, it has been one of the most unique parts of studying in a bilingual school.

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Text: Erika 

Photos: Kirsten Eskelinen