Dual Language Immersion Preschool
What is Dual Language Immersion?
Dual language immersion is a method of teaching a second language in which the learners' second language is used to teach subjects in the classroom. The goal is to develop bilingualism, biliteracy, academic achievement, and cross-cultural competencies for students who participate.
What are the Proven Benefits of Dual Language Immersion?
There is much research surrounding the benefits of dual immersion programs and the benefits of learning a second language at a young age.
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Second Language Skills - Early dual language immersion takes advantage of the children's capacity to learn language more quickly.
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Enhanced Cognitive Skills - Students in bilingual programs have been found to have better mental flexibility, better conceptualization, better executive functioning skills and more diversified mental abilities.
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Enhanced Test Scores - Dual language students perform as well as or better than non-immersion students on standardized test scores given in English.
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Increased Cultural Sensitivity - Dual language immersion students are more aware of and show more positive attitudes towards others cultures and are more appreciative of other people.
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Long Term Benefits - Dual language immersion students are better prepared for working in a global community and are more desirable in the job market.
What Occurs in a Dual Language Immersion Program?
Dual language immersion offers a rich bilingual experience for young language learners when their minds are developmentally best able to acquire a second language.
Typically, students have one Spanish-speaking teacher and one English-speaking teacher throughout the school day. During the English-speaking part of the day, the teacher will teach English Language Arts (reading, writing, and spelling, math, science, and social studies to ensure understanding. Likewise, during the Spanish speaking part of the day, the teacher will teach Spanish literacy and reteaching math, science, and social studies concepts. As well, the teacher will speak in Spanish and will answer students in Spanish. The teacher will communicate through pictures, songs, games, body language, and expressions to help students comprehend what is being said. Children are very adaptable and can pick up on the meaning in language when these strategies are used. After a brief period at the beginning of the year to encourage the students to begin using the language to communicate, students will also be asked to speak only in Spanish during the Spanish-speaking part of the day.
How Can My Child Participate in the Dual Language Immersion Program?
Parents interested in having their student participate in Dual Language Immersion (DLI) classroom can complete an application in the L.H. Carpenter or OJ Neighbours office. Applications are open to all students entering PreK.