Vol. 4 Issue 51 – Article: Language Teaching – Bilingual v Immersion Programs

Maxine Einhorn has posted an article on KQED. The article is titled “Language Teaching – Bilingual v Immersion Programs”.

Maxine says, “When we think about learning a language, we generally think about language taught as an add-on – like an ESL class for non-native English speakers or a class that is separate from academic content instruction. You learn German, Spanish or French in your language class, and knowledge and skills are taught in the native language. For example, math and history are taught in English here in the US or in the native language in other countries. But this approach, bilingual education, has been controversial since 1960s and is all about effective strategies for teaching and learning language.

Speaking in Tongues, a film by Ken Schneider and Marcia Jarmel explored this issue. In a time where 31 states have passed “English Only” initiatives, one urban school district is exploring the provocative notion that speaking a foreign language can be a national asset. Speaking in Tongues follows four diverse students and their families as they encounter the challenges and delights of becoming fluent in two languages”.

KQED: Language Teaching – Bilingual v Immersion Programs