Thank You, Ms. Silverman

Alyssa Rave, Performing Arts Editor

Señora Silverman deserves much appreciation for the outstanding job she does as a language teacher. Regardless of the fact that Spanish is a common foreign language course to enroll in, the teachers teaching Spanish should not be undervalued for their work as an instructor.

Due to teaching multiple levels of the Spanish language course, Señora Silverman is clearly adaptable to chaotic scheduling of the school days. Nevertheless, despite having to keep track of the various lesson plans for each level, she still presents a concise, organized class. The ability to carry the responsibilities of not two, but THREE different classes already speaks volumes about the efficient work ethic Señora Silverman has, but to continue to do so in a timely manner is greatly admirable.

Rather than being able to simply develop worksheets and quizzes, Señora Silverman has to account for all the skill levels and sets of her individual class students. Based on the vocabulary and grammar that comes with each new unit, the contents and review of Spanish chapters are limited. Nevertheless, the coursework is always manageable and appropriately challenging.

Students have yet to complain about the curriculum, and class discussions led by Señora Silverman are extremely helpful in comprehension and rarely call for further questions due to confusion. Her caring persona ensures no student is left behind in the study of the subject. Since learning an entirely new language is complicated, it makes all the difference that Señora Silverman recognizes the difficulties of Spanish syntax. Her focus on smoothing out the frequent hitches in mastering certain aspects of language study makes the comprehension of Spanish language much easier. Thankfully, Señora Silverman obtained a degree in Spanish Literature, so she is much more equipped to deal with the technicalities of interpretation of Spanish rhetoric and syntax.

However, her highlighting of troubling subjects in Spanish does not reign supreme over her sense of compassion. There has never been a teacher more sympathetic to the struggles of students. Whether it is allowing extra time to study before a quiz or explaining things extra in English to ensure the importance is grasped, Señora Silverman outdoes herself everyday. Not only is she understanding of problems within Spanish class, (such as translating), but she also refuses to restrict her students to a Spanish-only environment and allows the discussion of other classes. This lessens the pressure of speaking perfect Spanish in front of the class and encourages participation. In regards to participation points, Señora Silverman guarantees an accepting classroom—students aren’t shamed for messing up and are instead bettered through experience.

No matter the case, Señora Silverman’s Spanish classes function in the best of ways. It is through her kindness, intellect, and wisdom that each student is able to flourish in the face of a new language.

-Alyssa Rave, 11, Pow Wow, Performing Arts Editor