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Language First is a systematic approach to instruction in dual language immersion classrooms that prioritizes minority language development to increase bilingual proficiency and to promote greater access to academic content in both languages of instruction.
Addalingua has been helping dual language immersion programs in schools across the country practice Language First for over a decade.
the “monitor”
model
thought: focus on content because the belief was that students would automatically acquire the language
result: L2 is grammatically inaccurate/stunted
counterbalanced instruction
thought: balance content instruction with language targets and let content determine them
result: potential for L2 improvement but teachers find it difficult to identify language targets when planning content lessons
Language First
approach
thought: start with a structural syllabus that outlines language targets and infuse them through content instruction; establish a classroom culture that honors the minority language
result: L2 improvements; clear plan for teachers
Research demonstrates that for dual language immersion students in the United States, spending more time in the minority language does not adversely impact English language development.
Research demonstrates that students often prefer English given their perception of its value. It is the language of high stakes tests associated with financial reward and opportunity.
Research demonstrates that English learners have the lowest high school graduation rates of all student groups, including “students with disabilities.”
Here are two ways to bring the Language First approach to your program:
Language First Certification
Professional learning for dual language immersion educators of ANY language
Spanish Language Frameworks
PreK-8 language targets
based on spiraling Spanish language scope & sequence
Weekly language targets with supporting mini-lessons, mentor texts, student tools, instructional cycle, and planning guide to make counterbalanced instruction live in Spanish dual language immersion classrooms. Learn More.
Who is addalingua?
Our goal is to inspire global empathy through dual language immersion education.
Done well, these programs have the power to change not only students’ lives, but entire communities. Toward this goal, addalingua provides professional learning and powerful instructional resources to help build or super-charge any dual language immersion program.
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