Dual Language FAQs

                                                      Dual Language Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is dual language? 

The Dual language Program provides a way to learn academic content while acquiring another language at the same time. Students receive math, science, and social studies instruction in a target language, such as Spanish. The teaching strategies used to support students in learning the concepts and skills for the subject area and develop the ability to read, write, speak, and listen in another target language. The goals are for the students to reach high levels of target language proficiency and develop cultural competency while attaining academic achievement that is at or above their grade level. 

2. Who can participate? 

The dual language program seeks to enroll students of varying backgrounds and all ability levels. All students are capable of acquiring another language. Applications are open to all students entering kindergarten. 

3. Is dual language immersion a gifted/high ability program? 

The Dual Language Program is a general education program, not a gifted or high ability program. Research has shown that the Dual Language Program is an effective educational option for children from diverse backgrounds and all ability levels. 

4. Will learning two languages confuse a child or slow academic progress? 

Research have shown that young children have the capacity to learn multiple languages and have demonstrated stronger cognitive abilities. According to a study by Peal and Lambert, “bilinguals have greater mental flexibility, greater abstract thinking, greater lexical independence, superior concept formulation and higher verbal IQ than monolinguals.” 

5. Why is it better for a child to learn language at the elementary level? 

Children tend to develop a more native-like pronunciation when language learning begins before adolescence. 

6. Will students in the immersion classroom learn the same things in the general education classroom? 

Yes. The Dual Language Program is aligned to the Common Core State Standards. Students are learning the same material as other students on their grade level.

7. Are students exposed to only 50% of the curriculum? 

A common misconception about immersion programs is that students receive only 50% of the curriculum because English is taught for 50% of the day. Students in the Dual Language Program receive 100% of the grade level core curriculum. The only major difference in this type of specialized program is how the curriculum is delivered.