Translanguaging

TRANSLANGUAGING

Translanguaging is the ability to fluidly navigate between languages. In an educational context, teachers allow students to access and utilize the full range of their linguistic capabilities. Using translanguaging practices are culturally sustaining because it creates greater equity in access and achievement for English Language Learners. In English-only classrooms, students' home languages are seen as are barrier to their learning, and students can feel failure and shame when they are unable to demonstrate English proficiency. This can also result in students losing their home languages because their L1 is placed in a position of weakness over English, and consequently, students can lose the ability to communicate with their families and communities. With translanguaging practices, students are able to use their home languages to demonstrate a greater extent of what they are capable of. Similarly, teachers are able to access the full academic capabilities of their students, gaining a broader and deeper picture of students' knowledge and skills. Translanguaging practices also allows students to explore their own experiences and construct their own understanding in a way that is meaningful and relevant to them. 

5 Simple Ways to Invite Translanguaging -and all its benefits!- Into Your Classroom - The All-Access Classroom (theallaccessclassroom.com)