10.1 Bilingual education models throughout history

Bilingual education has evolved over time, offering various models to support language learners. From transitional programs to dual language immersion, these approaches aim to develop proficiency in multiple languages while maintaining academic progress.

Heritage language programs and content-based learning have gained popularity, recognizing the importance of cultural connections and authentic language use. These models reflect changing attitudes towards bilingualism and its benefits in education and society.

Bilingual Education Program Models

Transitional and Maintenance Models

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• Transitional bilingual education aims to transition students from their native language to the dominant language
  • Typically lasts 2-3 years
  • Gradually decreases instruction in the native language
  • Focuses on developing proficiency in the dominant language (English in the US)
• Maintenance bilingual education supports long-term bilingualism and biliteracy
  • Continues instruction in both languages throughout schooling
  • Aims to develop and maintain proficiency in both languages
  • Promotes additive bilingualism (adding a second language without losing the first)

Dual Language and Immersion Programs

• Dual language immersion programs provide instruction in two languages
  • Balance instruction time between two languages (often 50/50)
  • Develop bilingualism, biliteracy, and cultural competence
  • Can be one-way (for language minority students) or two-way (mix of language minority and majority students)
• Two-way immersion programs integrate native speakers of both languages
  • Aim for a balanced number of students from each language background
  • Promote cross-cultural understanding and peer language models
  • Often implement the 90/10 model (90% minority language in early years, gradually increasing majority language)

Heritage Language Programs

• Heritage language programs target students with cultural connections to a language
  • Designed for students who may have some proficiency in their heritage language
  • Focus on developing literacy skills and academic language
  • Preserve and strengthen cultural identity and language skills
  • Can be offered as after-school programs, weekend schools, or integrated into regular curriculum

Language Immersion Approaches

Full Immersion Models

• Submersion places language learners directly into mainstream classrooms
  • Provides no specific language support
  • Often referred to as "sink or swim" approach
  • Can lead to academic difficulties and language loss
• Structured immersion offers instruction entirely in the target language
  • Provides specialized techniques to make content comprehensible
  • Teachers use simplified language and visual aids
  • Gradually increases complexity as students progress

Content-Based Language Learning

• Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) integrates content and language instruction
  • Teaches subject matter (math, science, history) through the target language
  • Focuses on both content knowledge and language acquisition
  • Promotes cognitive engagement and authentic language use
  • Widely used in European education systems
• Benefits of CLIL include increased motivation and language exposure
  • Students learn language in meaningful contexts
  • Develops academic language proficiency
  • Prepares students for global academic and professional environments

Bilingual Schooling

Bilingual Schools and Their Characteristics

• Bilingual schools offer instruction in two or more languages
  • Curriculum is delivered in multiple languages throughout the day
  • Aim to develop high levels of proficiency in both languages
  • Often have specific language allocation policies (certain subjects taught in each language)
• Various models of bilingual schools exist
  • International schools with instruction in a local language and a global language (often English)
  • Schools catering to linguistic minorities (Welsh-English schools in Wales)
  • Elite bilingual schools focusing on prestige languages (French-English in Canada)
• Bilingual schools face unique challenges and opportunities
  • Require bilingual teaching staff and appropriate resources
  • Need to balance language use and ensure academic success in both languages
  • Often produce students with advanced metalinguistic awareness and cognitive flexibility