Jeshua Nunez

Dr. Clenance

English 110B

11/22/25

Translation 2 Revised Draft

This teacher is cutting down students’ thought bubbles so that every child’s ideas appear the same size and shape. This image symbolizes how standardized expectations English classes often limit students’ individuality, creativity, and expression which especially impacts non-native English speakers. Just as the cartoon teacher trims each student’s thoughts to fit a mold, traditional grading systems and deficit-based instructional practices push multilingual learners to match fixed standards of “correct” English rather than encouraging their growth. This cartoon visually reinforces the argument that English learners are not failing to express themselves; rather, the system is narrowing what counts as acceptable expression.

This cartoon shows how easily instructions can be misunderstood, especially when words have multiple meanings. The student interprets “summarize” as “summer,” (SUMMARrize sounds like SUMMERrize) hence giving the student thought to make her assignment summer based. This highlights how unclear language can confuse learners. This connects to the struggles non-native English speakers face in ELA classes, where misunderstanding vocabulary or instructions can lead to unfair judgment or frustration.

This ties back to the main weakness of the grading system and school itself. It reaches to the point where students focus on passing, missing the opportunity to grow and progress. This relates to my essay as if ESL students are receiving many negative effects towards grading; they will reach this mentality of only passing.