Dual Language Immersion
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Language immersion, or simply immersion, is a
method of teaching a second language in which the
students’ second language is the medium of
classroom instruction.
Through this method, learners study school subjects,
such as math, science, social studies, and literacy in
a Second Language.
The main purpose of this method is to foster
bilingualism, in other words, to develop learners'
communicative competence or language proficiency
in a Second Language in addition to their first or
native language.
Why Dual language Immersion?
As we are living in a globalized world, bilingual education
is receiving more acceptances in the United States and
other countries as well. With a new name, fresh face and
increasing numbers of American families are embracing
dual language immersion.
Here are five reasons why dual language immersion
programs are becoming so popular:
Why Dual language
Immersion?
1.
BILINGUALISM FOR ALL - Dual
language immersion is an
enrichment model that challenges
all students to become fluent in two
languages. There is no translation.
Native English speakers and ELLs
learn a second language together.
2.
CLOSING THE ACHIEVEMENT GAP:
Superior SAT scores and
standardized testing. ELLs become
more fluent in English when they
learn to read in their primary
language.
3.
HAPPY KIDS: It's really fun for our
students because their brain gets
to work with two different
languages, and their tongues get to
do two different sounds.
4. POSITIVE SCHOOL CULTURE: The
effectiveness of dual language education
extends beyond academic outcomes. The
entire school community benefits when
multiple languages and cultural heritages are
validated and respected. Friendships bridge
class and language barriers. Opens the door
to other cultures and helps a child
understand and appreciate people from other
countries. Parents from both language
groups participate more actively in schools.
5. COMPETITIVE JOBS: Increases job
opportunities in many careers where knowing
another language is a real asset.
Will a Second Language Interfere With our
students’ English Ability?
O In most cases, learning another language enhances a child's English ability.
Children can learn much about English by learning the structure of other
languages. Common vocabulary also helps children learn the meaning of new
words in English.
O In fact, children enrolled in foreign language programs score statistically higher
on standardized tests conducted in English. A number of reports have
demonstrated that children who have learned a second language earn higher
SAT scores, particularly on the verbal section of the test. One study showed
that by the fifth year of an immersion program, students outperformed all
comparison groups and remained high academic achievers throughout their
schooling.
Questions & Answers
Web sites:
O www.wabewa.org
O YouTube videos: Dual Language Immersion
in Tacoma, WA
Cool Links:
 http://wsunews.wsu.edu/pages/publication
s.asp?Action=Detail&PublicationID=17167
 http://www.k12.wa.us/WorldLanguages/Du
alImmersion.aspx