| Papers [1-15] of 100 :: [Page 1 of 7] | | Go to page : 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 —> | Search results on "BILINGUAL LANGUAGE ACQUISITION": |
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Bilingual First Language Acquisition, 2002.
An examination of early language development theory for potential bilingual children.
7,808 words (approx. 31.2 pages), 35 sources, MLA, $ 169.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the criteria for measuring early language development, the concepts associated with ascertaining a child?s developmental progress, the research supporting the prevailing theories and the significant findings inherent in credible research in these areas. It discusses how all over the globe young children seem to effortlessly acquire two or more languages at one time, while some uphold the belief that children who are exposed to multiple languages too early may experience developmental language delays and/or confusion. It evaluates how scientific research has attempted to examine whether young bilinguals can ascertain that they are acquiring two separate and distinct languages early on.
Outline
Introduction
Research and Analysis
Bilingual Paradox
Bilingual Deficit Hypothesis
Unitary Language System Hypothesis
Bilingual Advantage Hypothesis
Differentiated Language System Hypothesis
Vocabulary Development
The MacArthur CDI
Linguistic Milestones
Lexical Identifiers
Neutrals
Translation Equivalents
Interlocutor Sensitivity
Language Choice
Codemixing
Parental Discourse Strategies
Early Constraints
Conclusion
Bibliography
From the Paper
"The line of thought that resembles popular opinion about whether or not children should be raised bilingual from birth is called the ?Bilingual Paradox?. It is a paradox because there are conflicting contemporary theories about whether or not it is the preferred method of introducing two languages. While much research shows that, by several measures, children who are exposed to two languages simultaneously between the ages of zero and three achieve major milestones within the same timeframe and with similar results as monolinguals, the contemporary line of thought has been to teach a child one language early on, reserving the introduction of a second language for the later school years. The thinking associated with the latter opinion is that introducing two languages early on will confuse the child, or that the child will be disadvantaged in mastery of one or both languages. There are, however, steps parents can take early on based on proven research to give their child an advantage in learning language skills. Methodologies, tools, timing mechanisms and support strategies have been developed through testing and observation that aids children in successful and timely language development, specifically in the adoption of multiple languages."
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Early Bilingual Language Programs, 2006.
A paper looking at the benefits of early bilingual language programs.
900 words (approx. 3.6 pages), 2 sources, $ 35.95
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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.
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Bilingual Language Development, 2004.
An exploration of the process of double language acquisition by children.
2,676 words (approx. 10.7 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 80.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how there are several different ways to expose children to a second language. It looks at how some children are exposed to two languages since birth and how others are exposed to a second language once they enter a school program. It discusses how the process of double language acquisition is not so smooth and how there are a few discrepancies in fluency and language confusion to be taken into account.
Outline
Introduction
How Children Learn Two Languages
Stages of Development
Code Switching
Language Mixing
Two Languages, One Sentence: Not a Sign of Confusion
Language Imbalance
Language Loss and Semilingualism
Conclusion
From the Paper
"For some bilingual children, code switching is a normal language phenomenon. While some children acquiring a second language appear to confuse the two languages at first, code switching is a normal aspect of second language acquisition. Young bilingual children tend to insert single items from one language into the other (McClure, 1977), primarily to resolve ambiguities and clarify statements. Children over nine and adults, however, tend to switch languages at the phrase or sentence level, typically to convey social meanings. Studies of code switching in adults show it to be a sophisticated, rule-governed communicative device used to achieve goals such as conveying emphasis or establishing cultural identity."
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'Bilingual Language Processing', 2006.
A critique of an article entitled "Bilingual Language Processing".
675 words (approx. 2.7 pages), 1 source, $ 26.95
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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..."
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Bilingualism and First Language Loss, 2003.
This paper discusses the linguistic phenomena of bilingualism and first language loss and presents suggestions for advocating multilingual education.
5,115 words (approx. 20.5 pages), 23 sources, APA, $ 128.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that bilinguals are not inferior to monolinguals in any way; however, there still exist various stereotypes against bilinguals, which range from the claim by professions, such as speech therapists and medical doctors, that hearing two or more languages in childhood causes language disorder and language delay to the idea that bilinguals are slow learners and are losers in life. The paper reports that in order to fit themselves into school and society, some young bilinguals begin to learn English and, as soon as they have learned barely enough to get by, use their home languages less and less until they gradually lose it totally: This phenomenon is first language loss. The author stresses that first language loss is not a ?necessary or inevitable outcome? when children acquire a second language.
Table of Content
Introduction
Bilingualism
Types of Bilingualism
Studies on Bilingualism
First Language Loss
Process of First Language Loss
Consequences of First Language Loss
Fostering a Positive Linguistic Environment
Conclusion
From the Paper
"From these accounts, it is apparent that two major consequences of first language loss lie on family relationship and the crises of self-image and cultural identity. As far as family relationship is concerned, there is a lot of ?shame, anger, frustration, and embarrassment attached to the loss of a first language?. To the individuals, a negative self-image was common, resulting either from coming from non-English speaking families or being an outsider of their own ethnic group. At the same time, these people are usually haunted by the uncertainty of their own identity, because they are unable to identify themselves with either their home language culture or the dominant English culture. Besides, along the process of growing up into monolinguals in English, they were all neglected, isolated, and despised in one way or another. Life has been a constant struggle to them simply because they happen to have been born into non-English speaking families."
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Language Acquisition, 2002.
Examines the cognitive processes of Hispanic pre-school children to become bilingual in Spanish and English.
1,575 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 7 sources, $ 55.95
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Abstract
Examines the cognitive processes of Hispanic pre-school children to become bilingau in Spanish and English. Contends that the common language base of English and Spanish makes learning a second language earier for very young brains. The process of leanaing lauguage in human development. Relation of cognitive development to mastering a second language.
From the Paper
"This paper is an examination of the cognitive processes by which Hispanic pre-school children master their native language and then become bilingual in English. Acquiring a mastery of one language and then of a second language is an individual process, but it follows similar paths and uses the same distinct parts of the brain in each human being. Because Spanish and English have many semantic and syntactic similarities and because learning a second language is actually easier for very young brains, becoming bilingual at an early age is usually simpler for young children.
Learning to master the language of the surrounding environment is an essential process in human development. Brian MacWhinney (1998) observes, "Children learn language gradually and inductively, rather than abruptly and deductively" (p. 199)."
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The Study of Language, 2001.
The following paper examines the theories of bilingualism and multilingalism, language acquisition and language learning, making reference to a number of case studies.
2,790 words (approx. 11.2 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 83.95
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Abstract
The following paper examines the theories on language acquisition and looks at the useful distinction between acquisition and learning. The writer also comments on approaches and methods to teaching second and foreign languages. Lastly the writer comments on interference as a factor in language learning.
Table of Contents
Bilingualism and Multilingualism
Diglossia
First Language Acquisition
Using a text-mapping device to depict the important stages in first-language acquisition
Theories on how language is acquired
Innateness
Cognition
Input
Approaches and methods to teaching second and foreign languages
Interference as a factor in language learning.
From the Paper
"Diglossia is the coexistence of two forms of the same language in speech community. The one form will often be the literary or prestige dialect, and the other one can be a dialect commonly spoken by most of the population. The term diglossia could also be used to indicate bilingualism, or the speaking of two languages by the people of the same community. An example for the first definition is the use of Dutch in Belgium. Dutch is one of the official languages in Belgium. Dutch-speaking Belgians are called the ?Flemish? where the French-speaking Belgians are called ?Walloons?. Dutch spoken by Belgians is also referred to as ?Flemish?, which is not a literary form of the language, but a spoken ?dialect?. They are different varieties of the same language."
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"Bilingual/Bilingue", 2007.
This paper studies the poem "Bilingual/Bilingue" by Rhina Espaillat.
1,968 words (approx. 7.9 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 62.95
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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."
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'Bilingual/Bilingue Explication', 2007.
This paper analyzes the poem 'Bilingual/Bilingue', by Rhina Espaillat.
1,746 words (approx. 7.0 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 56.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer points out that 'Bilingual/Bilingue', by Rhina Espaillat is an invitation into a young girl's world as she grows up in a Spanish household, yet in an English speaking country. The writer notes that carefully weaving English with Spanish words for emphasis, Espaillat paints a picture of a girl forced to speak Spanish while yearning for English. The truth of the matter is that one cannot force a language out of one's heart, and even though the young girl is forced to speak Spanish in her home, her English words are just as meaningful as her Spanish. The writer maintains that 'Bilingual/Bilingue' is a statement on the flaws of forcing a native language upon someone, or perhaps of excluding a language from someone's life, as in the end it is what is in one's heart that is the true meaning of the language.
From the Paper
"With the problem established, the fourth stanza quotes the father as to what he is intends to do about the problem. He insists for his daughter to speak English outside the home and Spanish within. By maintaining that Spanish be spoken at home, the father is attempting to remain a part of his daughter's life as a Spanish speaker himself. He does not want English coming into his home and have a language barrier between himself and his daughter and establishes the rule. This division of the two languages, however, to the daughter is like dividing her world in two as Spanish and English are both important to her and what follows in the poem is a reaction to the rule her father has established."
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Bilingual Education and Bilingualism, 2001.
Discusses the spread and decline of various languages.
1,150 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 0 sources, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the pros and cons of bilingualism focusing on the homogenizing of the world's languages and the struggle to keep some languages and cultures alive. It mentions the effects of colonial powers, the necessities of learning other languages for trade purposes and the reluctance of younger members of minority groups to learn their original tongue. Contains information such as the top nine countries language wise contain 3,300 languages. The paper also discusses the gradual process of change in a language.
From the paper:
?Bilingualism is a reality today and it will become a greater reality as time goes. The extent to which it is prevalent is evidenced by the presence of bilinguals in every country today, as well as in every social class and every age group. International travel, communication and the mass media, emigration and planetary economics have created a so-called global village whereby inhabitants speak more than their own native language."
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Foundations of Bilingual Education & Bilingualism ( Colin Baker ), 1996.
Critical review of work on bilingual theory, effectiveness, strategies, student communication and feedback.
1,350 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 1 source, $ 47.95
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From the Paper
"The text entitled Foundations of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism by Colin Baker is a comprehensive look at the theoretical basis of the field of bilingualism, but it falls short of teaching educators practical ways of reaching bilingual students. In that sense, it is not a well rounded introduction to bilingualism for those who find themselves teaching bilingual students.
Ofelia Garcia's foreword notes Baker's psychological and sociological perspectives, and acknowledges that Baker "engages them [educators] in making decisions about appropriate educational approaches and pedagogical approaches" (vii). Baker may engage his readers in a discussion, but he does not offer a sufficient number of practical guidelines with which a teacher could successfully teach bilingual students. Again and again, he.."
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English as a Second Language, 2002.
A discussion of the effectiveness of traditional bilingual English as a second language (ESL) education systems.
1,537 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 21 sources, MLA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper evaluates the issue of bilingual English as a second language (ESL) versus immersion styles for teaching English to non-native speakers. It has become an issue that seems to be one debated more often by uniformed politicians than real teachers in real classrooms serving real students with real personalities and histories. It discusses the difficulties in finding realistic measurement tools to assess effectiveness and evaluates what is currently available. It proposes different theories for a positive ESL learning environment through literature reviews which examine such issues as goals and quality of outcomes testing, instructional organization and curriculum and provides a summary table of components and indicators for an ideal instructional delivery system.
From the Paper
"As any educator must be aware the theory of standardized evaluation looks good but the actual results are often difficult to evaluate. Sometimes this difficulty is due to demographics of changing student bodies and other times changing test tactics or report tactics in the same test year. Furthermore another possible hurdle is that changes of report or test type from year to year make all those that came before it invalid as tools for comparison, because they are no longer measuring the same things, good intentions not ignored, the outcomes sometimes make a set of statistics nearly worthless for long term determination of the effectiveness of any program. (Kunnan, 1998, p. iii)"
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Jocelyn Smrekar's Article 'Early Childhood Bilingual Classrooms', 2007.
This paper analyzes the article 'Early Childhood Bilingual Classrooms' by Jocelyn Smrekar (2005) from "Making a Difference in the Lives of Bilingual/Bi-cultural Children".
1,420 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that Jocelyn Smrekar in her article 'Early Childhood Bilingual Classrooms' by (2005) suggests that the bilingual education of young children should not be merely about language acquisition but also about a kind of cultural meeting of the minds of teachers and students of a variety of different backgrounds. The author points out that Smrekar's views in this sense coalesces with the esteemed cognitive academic language learning approach (CALLA), which states that valuing the student's own prior knowledge and cultural experiences and relating this knowledge to academic learning in a new language and culture is a key aspect of creating a learning-friendly environment for foreign language acquisition. The paper criticizes Smrekar because, unlike CALLA, she does not give much advice for teachers in terms of creating hands-on approaches that might be effective in the everyday life of the classroom.
Table of Contents:
Article Summary
In Favor of the Article's Point of View
Against the Article
Summary
From the Paper
"Smrekar provides helpful reminders that young children do not learn language as if by magic, rather individual students may vary in the levels of exposure they have to the language at home and in their social environments. She also encourages teachers not to judge student's overall intelligence harshly, merely because they make common initial linguistic mistakes in using English such as code mixing, or referring with a specific word to all general examples of a type, or conversely use under-extensions of specific vocabulary words, or not using a general vocabulary word in a host of specific contexts."
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English as a Second Language (ESL).
This paper reviews English as a Second Language (ESL) bilingual programs, its history, legislation, and funding.
2,875 words (approx. 11.5 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 85.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the influx of immigrants to the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries made it necessary to adopt policies regarding bilingual education; by the end of the 19th century, many states had adopted bilingual laws or provided bilingual instruction without creating formal legalization. The author points out that California's Proposition 227 is a threat to bilingualism within school curricula; therefore, supporters of ESL are attempting to have limited English proficiency listed as a special education need. The paper describes and evaluates three types of ESL instruction, including the withdrawal program, in which students are withdrawn from the classroom for instruction; submersion, in which students are placed in an English-only classroom with no additional help; and structured immersion, in which students are in an English environment, but the teacher, proficient in their native language, helps the student whenever difficulty arises with English in the classroom.
Table of Contents
History of Bilingual Education in the United States
Legislation Regarding Bilingual Education
Proposition 227
Type of Bilingual Program in the Classroom
Other Types of Bilingual Programs
Evaluation of Bilingual Programs
From the Paper
"According to this initiative, federal funds are provided to support English language learners (ELLs). The focus is thus entirely on teaching and learning English only. This is encouraged by "accountability" provisions, including the judgment of schools according to the number of ELLs reclassified as fluent English speakers. Furthermore, the failure to show progress in English learning will be punished. This appears to be a return to the earlier and paranoid legislation regarding language instruction during the World War I years. It also appears once again to be unconstitutional; schools are practically being forced to abandon all attention to native language instruction in favor of English-only instruction."
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Second Language Learning, 2002.
This paper discusses the problems concerning bilingualism in the classroom and the importance of English as a second language (ESL) programs.
2,500 words (approx. 10.0 pages), 9 sources, APA, $ 75.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how, in the United States, ?bilingualism? is a term that goes far beyond the use of more than one language and how the bilingual child in the American classroom commonly summons forth the image of a child who speaks English poorly, has difficulty learning and keeping up with his peers in school, and needs remedial classes. It discusses how English as a second language (ESL) programs are essential for the bilingual and/or multilingual students and how the bilingual learner in the American classroom deserves the same opportunities as those provided to native English-speaking students. It shows how decade's researchers and educators alike have argued about the best ways to teach ESL, and although many have disagreed on the methods employed by most ESL programs, few can argue about the importance of such programs in the American educational system.
From the Paper
"For the most part, studies conducted to date on classroom interaction and English as a second language learning (ESL) began their examinations into second and foreign language learning from this more traditional perspective. However, ?they cross disciplinary borders and draw on theoretical insights and empirical evidence found in areas outside of what has generally been considered the main purview of the ESL field. Their findings join our interests in reconceptualizing second and foreign language learning using a broader, sociocultural perspective of language and learning with practical concerns for nurturing classroom communities of successful second and foreign language learners.? "
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