What can I do as a parent to get involved in my child’s dual language classroom?
As in other education programs, strong home-school connections are essential to the success of dual language programs. There are many things that programs and parents can do to help foster these connections.
When possible, volunteer in the classroom.
Share with students aspects of the home language and culture such as music, dance, literature, and foods.
Attend parent education workshops on dual language programs.
Continue reading with your child at home.
When possible, serve as chaperons for program class trips.
Keep in touch with other dual language parents about program developments. For example, two volunteer parents (one representing each language background) can help get the word out to other parents about important upcoming events. In some programs, parents have formed an electronic email list along with staff, and they use that forum to discuss all sorts of issues.
Parents help each other with translations.
Support their children’s language and literacy development in two languages, as well as their emerging cross-cultural appreciation. They can do this by exposing their children to books and movies in both languages; attending cultural festivals; and providing opportunities for authentic language exchanges.
How can I help support my child in doing homework in the second language, particularly if I don’t know that language?
Parents can support students at home by making sure that they have the right environment and tools to get homework done (e.g., a quiet space and enough time, paper, dictionaries in both languages, writing utensils, and art supplies such as construction paper, paste, tape, and colored makers). Parents can also ask questions about the homework in the language spoken at home, thus giving the students opportunities to explain the assignment in their first language.
What resources exist for parents of Dual Language students?
There are many resources for parents on two-way immersion education.
Resources include:
1. Books and videos from organizations. Dual language videos are available through the Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL).
2. Online directories of dual language programs. CAL has an online directory of DUAL LANGUAGE programs in the United States.
3. Following is a partial list of organizations with a special interest in dual language education:
· The Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL)
· National Association for Bilingual Education (NABE)
· 2-Way CABE (California Association for Bilingual Education)
· Dual Language Education of New Mexico
· Illinois Resource Center
Some of these organizations host conferences that look at dual language programs, and this information is provided on their websites.
The OELA Newsline of the National Clearinghouse for English Language Acquisition also has a section for parents of bilingual children (to subscribe, go to http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/enews/subscribe.htm.)
Will learning a second language interfere with my child’s ability to learn basic reading, writing and math skills?
No. National studies have shown that children in Dual Language programs, as a group, perform the same or better than their monolingual, English-speaking peers on achievement tests in math, reading and writing (Thomas & Collier, 2001). Research also shows that students who acquire advanced levels of proficiency in two languages often experience cognitive and linguistic advantages and perform better on tasks that require divergent thinking, pattern recognition, and problem solving (Cummins, 1998).
Does it matter if no one at home speaks the second language?
No. Continuous exposure to English at home is also important. Read to your child daily and continue the literacy experiences you would naturally encourage. One of the advantages of this program is that students with strong English abilities succeed well. You may even notice your child beginning to read in English by using the literacy skills learned in Spanish before formal English reading instruction is presented.
How can I help my child with homework if I can’t understand the language?
Homework instructions are provided in English and in Spanish. Teachers will communicate with you in the language you are comfortable with. Teachers also welcome communication through email.
How are dual language kids tested on state required tests as they move on in school?
Students in a dual language program take the same state assessments as all Texas students. For students will take the test in the language of instruction. For example, if the student is receiving math instruction in Spanish, he/she will take the STAAR test is Spanish.
How are the test results for students that have been in dual language?
By 5th grade, students in dual language programs out-perform their peers in regular academic programs.