Dual-Language Learners: Strategies for Teaching English

by Angele Sancho Passe

Overview

Support dual-language learners as they develop the skills necessary for school readiness and success

For dual-language learners—children who are learning both English and a home language—the first eight years are crucial for building strong foundations for academic success. During this time, children acquire the early literacy skills needed to be ready for kindergarten, do well in elementary school, and thrive in the years beyond. Based on research and the author’s experience as a multilingual educator, Dual-Language Learners provides a thoughtful approach to help young children learn English, maintain their home language, and develop the skills necessary for school readiness and success.

This book includes
Information about both the challenges of and best practices for teaching dual-language learners
Ideas to help you plan and assess your curriculum and environment, as well as the children’s learning
Strategies for communicating with families of dual-language learners and for supporting home languages
An explanation of how children develop their first and second languages
Advice about how to teach English as a second language in a multilingual classroom
Reflection questions, techniques, checklists, handouts, and tips to aid you in your program planning and professional development

Angèle Sancho Passe, MA, is an early childhood education consultant with more than thirty years of experience and an expert in working with programs to develop plans for teaching dual-language learners and supporting their families. She is a frequent presenter at conferences and a member of the governing board for the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Angèle holds a bachelor’s degree in child psychology and family social science and a master’s degree in family education.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781605541013
Publisher:	Redleaf Press
Publication date:	11/06/2012
Pages:	200
Product dimensions:	6.90(w) x 9.90(h) x 0.50(d)

About the Author

Angèle Sancho Passe: Angèle Sancho Passe, MA, is an early childhood education consultant with more than thirty years of experience and an expert in working with programs to develop plans for teaching dual-language learners and supporting their families. She is a frequent presenter at conferences and a member of the governing board for the National Association for the Education of Young Children. Angèle holds a bachelor’s degree in child psychology and family social science and a master’s degree in family education.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments ix

Introduction 1

Chapter 1 The Educator's Challenge 5

Chapter 2 Frequently Asked Questions about Dual-Language Learning 13

Chapter 3 Planning an Effective Program for Dual-Language Learners 27

Chapter 4 Learning and Teaching Language 47

Chapter 5 Working with Families of Dual-Language Learners 63

Chapter 6 Environment and Curriculum for the Multilingual Classroom 87

Chapter 7 Techniques for Teaching English in the Multilingual Classroom 99

Chapter 8 Techniques for Supporting the Home Language 119

Chapter 9 Assessment 133

Conclusion: Putting It All Together 145

Appendix of Reproducible Templates 153

Brainstorming Worksheet 154

Classroom Language Plan 158

Family Story Form 160

Parent Tips Handout 162

Essential Elements for Family Support 163

Reading Plan 164

Essential Elements for Teaching 168

Family Survey 170

Essential Elements for Program Quality 172

Glossary 175

Recommended Resources 181

References 187

Editorial Reviews

This is a great addition to every early childhood teacher’s library. It offers relevant, culturally sensitive, and respectful strategies and tips for using both home languages and English in an early childhood setting. Angèle’s premise is well researched and easy to put into practice. This is an easy read with pertinent information that will serve all educators well.”
—Deby Ziesmer, Vice President, Early Childhood Education, YWCA of Minneapolis

From the Publisher