English As A Second language ( ESL )

Our readers write

Students use cluster diagrams before writing their essays

(Editor’s note: ESL teacher Barry Bakin from Pacoima Skills Center in Los Angeles has his students use PowerPoint to prepare cluster diagrams before starting work on their essays. Barry says, “Starting to use organizational writing aids in intermediate levels helps prepare students for the writing tasks they will encounter in advanced classes and the high school program.” Another diagram is in the July issue.)

MY FAMILY
by Irma Gonzalez, Pacoima Skills Center

My family is very small, but it is very wonderful and we are very close. I got married in March 8, 1986 in Guatemala, and I started a family right away. My family consists of my husband, my daughter, and my son.

My husband's name is Juan Jose Gonzalez. He is 48 years old. He has a lot of positive qualities: he is a very nice husband, father, and friend. He studied in Guatemala, and he graduated with a diploma as an Industrial Technician. Right now he finished the English program at Pacoima Skills Center, and he may continue in college. His hobbies are watching soccer games, playing soccer, coaching soccer teams, traveling to different places and cities, and eating out. He has worked in the same company for 21 years. It was the first and only job for him in this country, and his position is supervisor.

My daughter's name is Maria Gonzalez. She was born in Guatemala, but right now she is a U.S. citizen. She is 23 years old. She is my oldest child. She is a very good daughter, sister, and friend. She is a very special person because she likes to help others. She is an excellent student. She recently received a Computerized Accounting Certificate. She is currently going to college and is enrolled in the CNA program. Her hobbies are playing and coaching soccer, listening to music, traveling to different countries, and driving to different places and cities. She is currently working as a customer service representative for Refrigeration Hardware Supply; her two year anniversary was this month.

My son's name is Juan Jose Gonzalez Jr. He was born in Guatemala, but right now he is a U.S. citizen. He is 20 years old. He is my youngest child. He is a very good son, brother, and friend. He is a respectful person, and he has noble sentiments. He is very friendly. He is a good student. He recently received a Computer Graphic Design / Technician Certificate. He is currently going to college and enrolled in the electrician program at Pacoima Skills Center. His hobbies are watching TV, playing and coaching soccer, and traveling to different countries and places with his friends. He has been in the military services since 2006/2007; he is in the Marine Corp Reserve and his job title is MIMMS (Marine Corps Integrated Maintenance Management Specialist). He also works full time at Milgard Windows as a lead man in production.

I enjoy all the time that I spend with my family because my husband, my daughter, and my son all share the same interests. This is my wonderful and very close family.