Article
Reframing the Debate on Language Separation: Toward a Vision for Translanguaging Pedagogies in the Dual Language Classroom
The Modern Language Journal
(2014)
Abstract
The policy of strict separation of languages for academic instruction dominates dual language bilingual education programming. This article explores the dynamic bilingual practices of two experienced bilingual teachers in a two‐way dual language public school in Texas and contributes to current research problematizing language separation. Data included interviews, field notes, and classroom interaction video in a pre‐kindergarten and a first grade classroom. The instructional practices of the two teachers suggested powerful strategies to promote bilingual identities. Drawing on identity theory, particularly the notions of positioning and investment, we attempt to contribute to recent research offering teachers potential translanguaging instructional strategies. These strategies include: (a) modeling dynamic bilingual language practices, (b) positioning students as bilingual (even before they are), and (c) celebrating and drawing attention to language crossing. In combining these strategies, teachers move toward using students' bilingual language practices as a resource for academic instruction.
Keywords
- emergent bilinguals,
- dual language education,
- bilingual language acquisition,
- instructional strategies,
- translanguaging
Disciplines
Publication Date
October 7, 2014
DOI
10.1111/modl.12121
Citation Information
Deborah K. Palmer, Ramón Antontio Martínez, Suzanne G. Mateus and Kathryn Lynn Henderson. "Reframing the Debate on Language Separation: Toward a Vision for Translanguaging Pedagogies in the Dual Language Classroom" The Modern Language Journal Vol. 98 Iss. 3 (2014) p. 757 - 772 Available at: http://works.bepress.com/suzanne-garcia-mateus/2/