DUAL LANGUAGE + ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNERS
Supporting Parent Understanding
Include them in learning process
Encourage L1 (writing, reading, oral communication) at home
Invite them into your classroom to participate in or lead lessons about their culture/language
What they should know
L1s preserve familial and cultural backgrounds
L1s provide a foundation
for developing proficiency in additional languages
language skills and conceptual knowledge are generally transferable from
one language to another
Resources
https://www.chatham.k12.nc.us/Page/21558
http://www.multilingual-matters.com/
Dual Language Texts in the Classroom
Helps with the idea of natural acquisition of language
Dual language texts provide opportunities for students to become literate in an organic and fluid way
reading dual or multiliteracy materials can transfer the literacy skills and concepts developed in one language to another
opportunity to compare and contrast the texts and develop metalinguistic ability
provide predictability from one language to another
enhances self-esteem because they can communicate their knowledge
expands knowledge of the
L1, which helps the learning
of English
Dual Language Strategies
Using L1 to record ideas
Invite students to produce dual-language assignments
Write first drafts, notes, journal entries, and outlines in L1
Hands-on/Experiential Activities
Working with same-language partners (use L1, before English to discuss topic)
Use manipulatives and found objects (like money, household objects, etc)
Word Charts
Teach key words before lesson/explain as they arise
Explain connections among words
Helps with the acquisition of academic vocabulary
Guided Reading
room partners or crossgrade
tutors
Focus on specific aspects of the
text
new vocabulary
visual materials
organization
Demonstrate and promote effective reading strategies
Student Benefits
Emotionally
Supports student identity
Student-centred learning
mental flexibility
Increased self-esteem
Socially
become aware of the value of cultural diversity and multiple
perspectives
a sense of cultural stability and continuity
Promotes positive attitudes in regards to language learning and acquisition
Academcially
develop problem-solving skills
Able to build on prior knowledge, regardless of language
Due to increased confidence, students excel academically
Increases motivation to learn and be successful
