May/June 1998

Models of Language Instruction

• Bilingual Immersion Students are taught in a separate classroom with most instruction in English. Part of the day, however, is set aside to develop concepts, literacy, and critical-thinking skills in the native language. The goal is for students to improve their English so they can join regular classrooms in two to four years.

• Early-Exit Transitional Bilingual The most common model in use. The student's native language is used as a bridge, beginning with entry into school until they learn enough English to function in a regular classroom, theoretically two to three years. Programs vary in how rapidly English is introduced and which subjects are taught in the native language. The goal is to develop English skills without delaying academic content.

• English as a Second Language (ESL) Students get special instruction in English from a trained specialist, either in the regular classroom or in a pull-out program varying from 30 minutes to half the day. The goal is to assist students who are learning subjects primarily in English.

• Late-Exit Transitional Bilingual Education (Maintenance or Developmental Bilingual Education) Students receive some instruction in their native language until 6th grade, with the increasing use of English. The goal is to foster literacy in the native language as a foundation for later literacy in English, as well as to instill a positive attitude toward the native culture.

• Sheltered English Immersion (Structured Immersion) Academic content is taught in simple English using context and gesture to explain meaning. Some programs allow teachers to use students' home language for clarification or have native-language aides available when needed. The goal is to mainstream students quickly.

• Two-Way Bilingual Education Language-majority and language-minority students are taught together in the same bilingual class. Most programs are English/Spanish, but some are available in other languages. The goal is for all students to develop fluency in both languages.