Newly immigrated Asian-American students are often misunderstood by their classroom behavior.  They may hesitate or give short responses to questions, use a soft voice, decline to openly volunteer information, and avoid eye contact.  Their facial expressions may be mistaken for displeasure rather than concentration, such as frowning when hard at work.  They may become embarrassed when praised.

All of these examples are often misinterpreted by teachers due to ignorance.  These children are merely abiding by the social rules of their Asian culture, which may be unfamiliar to many Americans.  It is important to understand Asian cultural norms so that children are not thought to be impolite when they are actually trying to show respect as they would in their home country.

Family loyalty is a strong Asian value.  Family members are encouraged to do their best because failure would bring shame and...