Abstract This paper investigates bilingual educational, and evidence that both supports and undermines specific didactic methods. Problems with bilingual education are also be addressed. Special attention is paid to bilingual immersion as a language acquisition tool, and is compared with other bilingual education methods. Additionally, the discussion addresses key issues regarding the failures and problems in bilingual education in the state of California.
Methods in Bilingual Education
Problems and Failures in Bilingual Education
Conclusions
From the Paper "There is significant need for effective methods in the teaching of America's growing number of English learners, students who must learn English as a second language. Estimates cite 4.6 million English learners in American public schools in 2000-2001 (Rodriguez, & Higgins 2005). Immense effort and research has addressed this problem, yet many students still struggle. The current status of English learner debate centers on the positive and negative aspects of bilingual programs versus programs that do not use a student's native language in instruction. To be considered a bilingual program, a method must incorporate both the English language and native language of the student into the school instruction. Bilingual programs come in many forms, with varying levels of native language use and English use. Depending on implementation methods and structure, bilingual programs also have varying levels of success."
Tags:Bilingual, education, Hispanics, United, States, elementary, education
Abstract This paper explores recent trends and controversy regarding bilingual education and examines various methods for providing bilingual education. Additionally, recent educational trends in this field are discussed, including two-way bilingual education, integrated bilingual education, two-way immersion, and transitional bilingual. Issues such as preserving the students' native culture and language as well as their growth in both the native language and the newly acquired language are examined.
Outline:
Introduction
Differing Methods of Bilingual Instruction
English Only Mandates
Loss of Native Language
Conclusion
From the Paper "Bilingual Education ideally encompasses dual language learning that can take on any number of forms (Jarvis, 2006). The vast majority of research supports bilingual education as a necessity to facilitate not only learning on non-native speakers of English, but as a tool to maintain and promote heritage language and culture (Adams & Jones 2006; Combs et.al., 2005; de Jong, 2006; Hasson, 2006; Jarvis, 2006; Lee, 2006; Lopez & Tashakkori, 2006; Moses, 2000; Nora, 2000;). While research continues to indicate the benefits of bilingual education there has been recent influx of "English-only" mandates (Adams & Jones, 2006, Combs et. al., 2005; Lee, 2006; Moses, 2000) which perpetuate injustice manifesting itself in various ways throughout the educational experience of English language learners (ELL) (Adams & Jones, 2006; Combs et. al., 2005; Hasson, 2006; Moses, 2000)."
Tags: ELL, English Language Learners, ESL, English Second Language, bilingualism, dual, english only, NCLB, No Child Left Behind, immersion, Hispanic, Spanish, monolingual
Abstract This paper discusses the pros of bilingual education in New York public schools. As part of the discussion, the paper examines the following four language programs available in New York: two-way bilingual education, transitional bilingual education, English as a Second Language (ESL) and English immersion program.
From the Paper "Over the last five years, educators in the New York City public school system have begun to acknowledge the need for schools to offer increased program choice for the wide variety of English Language Learners (ELLs) entering the New York City public school system. Current language programs in New York can be classified under four categories: two-way bilingual programs, transitional bilingual education, English as a Second Language (ESL) and English immersion programs. Due to the shortage of funding and qualified teachers the majority of ELLs has..."
Abstract In this article, the writer points out that bilingual education has become increasingly accepted as a necessary part of today's educational culture. The writer examines both the benefits and deficiencies of bilingual education. The paper is also used to present some discussion on the ability to assess success in a bilingual education program.
From the Paper "Evidence of benefits do exist for bilingual education, including increased student self-esteem, improved sociocultural understanding, and reading and writing proficiency in both the students' original language and their adopted English language. However, evidence also exists that bilingual education does not work for many students. Commonly discussed deficiencies in bilingual education include a lack of English proficiency at graduation, the failure to transition from the student's native tongue to English, and the inability to provide "authentic" bilingual education to students from a variety of cultures."
Abstract This paper looks at the issue of bilingual education for Hispanic students in the U.S. The paper discusses key theoretical concepts underlying bilingual education and explains why traditional teaching approaches are not the most appropriate for Hispanic students.
From the Paper "In this chapter the provision of bilingual education to Hispanic students in the US will be explored from conceptual and empirical perspectives. More specifically, the key theoretical concepts underlying bilingual education programs and secondary language acquisition will be discussed. The examination of these concepts offers the premises underlying the idealized conception of bilingual education which can be used as a baseline for comparison with the actual reality. The reasons underlying the ineffectiveness of many bilingual education programs will also be explored. At the same time the..."
Tags: Hispanic, Students, Bilingual, Education, United, States
Abstract Fierce debate rages in the U.S.A. today over the issue of bilingual education, as opposed to English immersion education. Research quickly reveals that there is a vast quantity of conflicting evidence on the issue. This paper evaluates the arguments in favor of each, and shows that in fact bilingual education is preferable. It shows that arguments such as the fact that English immersion is more successful, or more desired by parents, are not conclusively substantiated by research.
Abstract This paper summarizes the rationale behind the investigators' research presented in the article "Bilingual Language Processing" as well as the research outcome and the investigators' conclusions on how bilingual subjects process language. The paper also points out some concerns over the methodology employed and how future studies might be able to avoid these (e.g. concerns over sample size, devices used, etc.).
From the Paper "The investigators in the study "Shared and separate systems in bilingual language processing: Converging evidence from eye tracking and brain imaging" sought to prove that initial parallel processing of language occurs in bilinguals, only to later on default to processing in discrete cortical centers (Marian, Spivey & Hirsch, 2002). This article tackles two distinct concerns regarding language processing in bilinguals: the first being whether one or both languages were [simultaneously] processed and whether discrete cortical regions existed for each language or shared common regions within such areas as the inferior frontal gyrus (ibid.). According to their review of literature, the question of whether parallel processing versus "serial" processing, wherein the lexicon not utilized is shut off in favor of the other, remained unresolved..."
Abstract Infants and very small children are extremely receptive of almost all forms of learning. For many years, it was the practice to begin foreign language training at the high school level. However, research suggests that children who begin bilingual education at the pre-school level are the most effective language learners. This paper explains that the myths of dual language acquisition have largely been found to be false: learning more than one language does not lead to confusion or disorders in the learner. The paper also discusses the benefits that occur when bilingual education is begun at a very early age.
Abstract This paper discusses the many advantages of immersion bilingual programs for students. The author discusses a model used in Canada as a means of maintaining one's first language before acquiring another. Additionally, the author cites many advantages of children being bilingual, including ease of learning another language, increased language and cognitive skills and acceptance of other cultures.
Outline:
Greater Language and Cognitive Learning
Better Learning of other Curricula
Closing the Gaps between Student Abilities
Respect for Other Cultures
Other Benefits from Immersion Programs
From the Paper "Overall, research has shown that children in a total immersion program will experience a delay in their English language arts skills. This is normal and is to be expected, due to the lack of formal instruction in English. However, by third grade, the English literacy skills of immersion students will become equal to those of students educated in a traditional school. By fifth grade, many immersion students will surpass traditional students in English reading and writing. This happens due to a transfer of literacy skills across languages. A strong grasp of a first language provides a solid basis for the acquisition of English literacy."
Abstract This paper relates that English-only instruction for limited English proficiency (LEP) students does not provide the same quality education as for native speakers. The author points out that refusing a non-native English learner schooling in his or her native language, especially at the beginning stages of his or her education, is a denial of the basic human right of freedom and opportunity to pursue one's goals. The paper asserts that, rather than investigating the claims made by anti-bilingualist politicians and officials, people tend to be motivated by their emotions and political hysteria to take a position that is not only unfair towards the children involved but also towards the future of the country itself.
Table of Contents:
Bilingual Education: Background and History
Bilingual Education: Opponents
Conclusion and Considerations for the Future
From the Paper "Currently, the United States is going through a difficult political period. Emotions are running high not only in terms of the war on terrorism, but also in terms of the concomitant issue of culture and language. Whereas German was the maligned language and culture during the World Wars, currently Arabs are at the receiving end of racial slurs and attacks. Because of this, Americans are also subject to a particularly patriotic feeling, which translates itself to the language issue. Hence the drive to phase out bilingual education is politically rather than linguistically motivated."
Abstract In this article, the writer discusses a reality that affects thousands of parents who face the problems of raising their child bilingually. The writer looks at how parents can assure that their child are able to speak their mother-tongue when living in a foreign county. This essay addresses the challenge that faces families from all ethnic groups and races; that of assuring bilingual efficiency. The writer maintains that the process of language learning, even for young children, can be extremely stressful, and the impact of both negative and positive attitudes from peers, family, and the surrounding society can be significant. The writer concludes that early exposure to the language has been proven beneficial, and can strengthen motivation and facilitate learning.
Outline:
Introduction
Looking At the Issues
From the Paper Why do parents wish to raise their children bilingually? Language is cultural identity, and, for most parents who are from different racial backgrounds, the desire to teach their children their mother-tongue is based on the recognition that in achieving this, they are not only bringing the child's two cultures together, but also enabling a sense of both duality and international awareness that is unattainable in a monolingual world. It introduces the child to different cultural expectations, worldviews, and concepts. Therefore, for parents who are committed to this initiative, raising children bilingually is not only both challenging and rewarding, but is also a task that is practical and accessible. However, there are many people who feel that raising children bilingually can cause social, cultural, and personal development problems within the child (Maria Estela Brisk, et al, 2004).
Abstract An analysis of the writing style of Richard Rodriguez in "Aria: Memories of a Bilingual Childhood" and how his environment growing up influenced his writing style. The paper presents a close look at the significance of diction, parallelism and personification within this work. The paper concludes with a relation to Dick Gregory's "Shame" with parallels between the two.
From the Paper "The separation of a child from the masses because of language differences will not produce an identity; rather one must feel accepted to receive an identity. The diction throughout creates a vivid image of insecurity and alienation. Rodriguez effectively gets his position of anti-bilingual education across through the experiences of an innocent, na?ve child. The comparisons of private and public life reflect the contrast between English and Spanish. A thorough and compassionate insight into the past accomplishes the purpose of influencing a supporter of bilingual education to change his mind to the views that being exposed to the dominance of English will lead to success later in life. Rodriguez's "Aria: memories of a bilingual childhood" utilizes contrasting diction, parallelism, and personification to convey a melancholy tone of alienation and insecurity towards his own bilingual childhood, which eventually shifts to an acceptance to American society."
Abstract This paper provides a field observation of a third grade bilingual education classroom. It discusses how the teacher delivered services to the students. The paper explores the immersion technique and one on one instructions. The author expands on the encouragement of student responses and parental participation in education.
From the Paper "Educators including, Stephen Krashen have long been convinced that bilingual education programs are necessary to ensure that students for whom English is not a primary language will become literate and acquire knowledge ..."
Abstract This paper provides a number of reasons why bilingual programs should be eliminated from public education in the U.S. It discusses their inefficacy, their cost and their tendency to promote failure among students subjected to them.
From the Paper "Bilingual education should not be provided in U S public schools because despite some evidence of its success, for the most part it provides no additional educational benefits to students, it overburdens and ..."
Tags: Hispanic, academic performance, no child left behind, bilingual education act, government, funding, budgets, teachers, literacy
Abstract In this article, the writer explains that "Bilingual/Bilingue" by Rhina Espaillat is a depiction of a girl growing up in a Spanish speaking household in the United States. The writer notes that through excellent language choices and the successful use of literary devices, Espaillat captures the difficulties of living in an English speaking country while coming from a Spanish speaking home. The writer describes that "Bilingual/Bilingue" is a personal account of the realities of bilingualism, and shows how it is possible to overcome language and cultural barriers to learn a second language. The writer concludes that real life examples and the girl in "Bilingual/Bilingue" both show that the original language remains a part of one's culture and identity and that language barriers are an obstacle, but not a permanent one.
From the Paper "It is out of this fear that he resists English in the household, but his daughter, who studies English extensively in and outside of the house on her own, comes to become more than proficient in English. She realizes what her father does not, that language is not a divisive force, and that she can express herself fully in English, her second language. Thus Espaillat is writing on the success people can achieve in learning and living in the United States as a bilingual individual. Language will not divide her from her father, and she can become a successful English poet growing up in a Spanish household. The cultural and linguistic challenges she faced she was able to overcome."
"Espaillat's perspective on the issue of bilingualism individually and as a society is backed up by both empirical and qualitative research. In fact, although Espaillat's childhood experience was many years ago in the 1930s, issues she faced and issues she overcame are relevant to this day. For instance, a 2007 study on bilingual Latino and Latina adolescents evaluated the role of the Spanish language and bilingualism for both gifted and non-gifted students. This study found that for these bilingual students, regardless of level of academic achievement, that Spanish was their native language."
