Transitional bilingual education

Definition

Transitional bilingual education is an instructional strategy designed to support students who are English language learners (ELLs) by providing academic instruction in both their native language and English. The primary goal of this approach is to transition students to English proficiency while helping them maintain their cultural identity and heritage language. This method emphasizes a gradual shift from the use of the native language in the classroom to full instruction in English as students develop their language skills.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transitional bilingual education typically involves using the native language for initial instruction, gradually increasing the use of English as students gain proficiency.
2. This approach aims to facilitate academic success for ELLs while helping them adjust to a new linguistic environment.
3. Transitional bilingual education programs often vary in duration, depending on the specific needs of the students and the goals of the program.
4. Parents and communities play a vital role in supporting transitional bilingual education by encouraging native language use at home.
5. Research shows that students in transitional bilingual education programs often perform better academically compared to those in all-English immersion programs.

Review Questions

• How does transitional bilingual education support English language learners in their academic success?
  • Transitional bilingual education supports English language learners by providing instruction in both their native language and English. This dual approach helps students build on their existing language skills while gradually transitioning to English, which can lead to better academic performance. By maintaining their native language, students also retain a connection to their cultural identity, which can boost their confidence and engagement in the learning process.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of transitional bilingual education compared to other forms of bilingual education for ELLs.
  • Transitional bilingual education has been shown to be effective in facilitating language acquisition and academic achievement for English language learners. Unlike immersion programs that fully transition students to English, transitional programs allow for a gradual increase in English instruction while preserving native language use. Research indicates that students in transitional bilingual education tend to have stronger academic outcomes than those in immersion settings, as they are supported in both languages during critical learning years.
• Analyze the potential long-term impacts of transitional bilingual education on students' cultural identity and language skills.
  • The long-term impacts of transitional bilingual education can be significant for students' cultural identity and language skills. By incorporating their native language into the educational process, students are more likely to maintain strong connections to their heritage and community. This fosters a sense of belonging and pride in their cultural background. Additionally, being proficient in both their native language and English can open up broader opportunities for communication, career prospects, and academic pursuits, enabling students to navigate diverse environments effectively.

Related terms

English Language Learners (ELLs): Students who are learning English as a second language and may require additional support in acquiring proficiency.

Bilingual Education: An educational approach that uses two languages for instruction, promoting bilingualism and biliteracy.

Language Proficiency: The ability to effectively use a language for communication, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing.