Jose’s parents are pro America. His mother is more prone to her children assimilating into mainstream Americanization, while his father wants his children to keep their Mexican heritage, intact. His parents are stewards of the family heritage and reinforce his attitude toward family interactions, within the home. Spanish is the primary language used in verbal intercourse within the home and English is allowed during homework or reading assignments. Jose’s mother is the primary source for assistance with homework, due to her bi-lingual abilities, and often instructs in Spanish to appease her spouse. Jose’s grandparents maintain family observances of Mexican holiday traditions and religious practices.

Native Mexican foods are a staple in the home and cultural art is prominently displayed in common rooms. (http://www.mexicopeopleandcrafts.com/) The family vacations and visits Mexico frequently to foster family connections, as well as poignant reminders of family heritage. Jose’s father’s store caters primarily to Hispanic stables and his clientele communicate in Spanish. The family actively participates in the Mexican fest ivies, in the community and is active in political functions, promoting Hispanic issues and candidates.

The family resides in a rural area, in an old farmhouse, on several acres of land. There is a computer in the home, books, mostly written in Spanish, and televisions. The entire family is literate in their native language and the children are at different levels of English, in their BICS and CALP applications. The community population is very diverse and bi-lingual ability is a positive attribute for the children, to participate in the community. The family came to the United States via regular immigration and Jose was only three years old. He attended kindergarten and first grade, and then the family returned him to Mexico. Jose returned to the U. S. at the age of 10, approximately three months ago. His English is limited and he is having difficulty in reading, at grade level. He is a very healthy young man, demonstrating no malnutrition, mental or physical afflictions, and exerts a happy demeanor. He is of average height for his age group, with brown eyes, brown hair, and a dark skin tone. Jose appears well rounded and a bit shy, especially when asked to hear his own voice on the tape recorder.