About Dual Language Immersion
About
The Dual Language Immersion program differs greatly from earlier bilingual programs offered in many California districts. Unlike those programs, Dual Language Immersion provides both native English speakers and Spanish speaking Academic English Learners the opportunity to learn to read, write, and communicate effectively in English and in Spanish while achieving high levels of academic achievement. This is an “additive bilingual” program, meaning that a child’s first language continues to be strengthened and augmented while he/she is gaining a second language.
In addition, students have the opportunity to develop an understanding of and an appreciation for other cultures, develop a high self-esteem and experience positive interactions with people from other cultures and countries. Participation in this program begins in TK/K and students remain in the program through fifth grade and into secondary in order to reach and maintain high levels of proficiency in two languages.
Both Spanish dominant and English dominant speakers are placed in the same classroom. Ideally, 50% of the students should be dominant speakers of Spanish, and the other 50%, dominant speakers of English. Bilingual students may also be included in the program. However, in any classroom configuration, dominant Spanish speakers should make up not less than 35% of the class, as they serve as strong models for the target language.
Instructional Program and Model
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Language arts is taught in Spanish.
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One or two content areas are taught in English
- English Language Development is provided daily, using the common core state English Language Development standards.
- Time split is TK - 1 is 90/10 and 2nd grade is 80/20 Spanish/English.
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Formal literacy in English is introduced, while Spanish literacy is maintained.
- English Language Development is provided each day using the common core state
- English Language Development standards.
- Other content areas are taught in Spanish.
- Time split is 3rd grade 70/30 and 4th grade is 60/40 Spanish/English.
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Continued emphasis on English Language Development and academic vocabulary.
- Language arts and math continues to be addressed in both languages.
- High academic and linguistic expectations.
- The time split for 5th grade is 50/50 Spanish/English.
- Two core subjects are taught in Spanish at each grade level.
- 6th grade seminar, math, history, and science.
- 7th grade history, math, Spanish language arts.
- 8th grade history, Spanish, language arts.
- Zero period courses are offered to create space in DLI student schedules to accommodate electives.
- Students take Spanish elective courses in high school.
- Advanced Spanish culture and composition I and II.
- AP Spanish language and culture.
- AP Spanish literature.