Spanish Dual Language

What is Dual Language?

Dual Language programs, also known as two-way immersion programs, allow students to develop proficiency in two languages by receiving classroom instruction in English and Spanish. Dual language programs allow students to progress academically while becoming biliterate and bicultural. In Plumosa, we offer a 50-50 model, 50% of instruction in English, 50% in Spanish, with Language Arts and Writing instruction in both languages, Math in English, and Science/S.S.  offered in Spanish.

We have both native Spanish speakers and non-Spanish speakers in this program.  For some of our students, this will be their 3rd language that they are learning.  Dual Language programs satisfy the requirement of mandated bilingual programs for ELLs (English Language Learners) and are proven to be the most effective model of instruction for these students. Students often work together developing their language skills in their respective languages, promoting deeper understanding and cross-cultural understanding in this immersion-style classroom setting.

Goals of the Dual Language Program

In this phenomenal K-5 program, students achieve academic excellence in two languages, becoming bilingual and bi-literate while developing cultural awareness and sensitivity.  Data has shown that students in Dual Language programs have outperformed control students in all-English schools on a variety of English language tests, including reading, writing, and Math.  In addition, students perform at or above grade level in both languages, as demonstrated in district-wide reading assessments and State Assessment Tests. This in-depth program promotes future academic success, giving students greater opportunities in a competitive global society.

Why invest the time and effort in learning a Foreign Language ?

Learning another language at an early age…

• Prepares students for 21st-century employment opportunities.
• Helps students perform at or above grade level in all content areas in both English and Spanish.
• Develops high levels of proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages for advanced placement courses in high school.
• Increases cognitive skills and academic abilities that will transfer to overall higher achievement.
• Cultivates a lifelong love for language learning and an appreciation for cultural diversity.
   

Research Findings for Dual Language:
Believe it or not, being bilingual makes you smarter! Improved cognitive skills, memory, decision-making skills, multitasking skills, and better focus are just a few benefits. In addition, bilinguals show denser gray matter: Grey matter is responsible for processing language, storing memory, and dictating attention spans.  Research has shown bilingual adults with Alzheimer’s take twice as long to develop symptoms as their monolingual counterparts. 

More Research and Resources on Dual Language

Importance of Commitment for Parents and Students

It takes 1-2 years to learn Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills (BICS) and 5-7 years to learn Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP).  Students should start in Kindergarten (or 1st grade -at the latest).  Since bilingual proficiency and bi-literacy is a long-term commitment and the Choice Program spots are limited, we ask you to consider carefully whether this is the right decision for your child and family.  If you know that you are moving, and/or not planning to complete the whole program, you may want to consider one of our other programs (such as our Arts Program) instead and thereby free the spot for a family who is able to make the long-term commitment.  However, we hope you are as excited as we are to commit to this amazing program!

There are many reasons families choose to participate in the dual language program:
Multicultural appreciation, the benefit of learning a second language at an early age, career opportunities, and the ability to develop social skills for life in a multicultural world.
Parents are the key to the success of any program and each family must consider if a dual language program is right for your child.
In order to participate in the Dual Language Program at Plumosa School of the Arts, both students and parents must agree to the conditions set forth in the contract and they have to sign while their child is attending Plumosa School of the Arts. Parents MUST be supportive of their child and the program.

This is a successful program that allows students to learn a second language while they are learning grade-level academic content. We will be happy to have you and your child in our Plumosa family.

Parents who commit to Dual Language understand that…

• Language learning is a process and their child will participate in the program for six years (K-5).
• Their child will receive 50% of instruction in English and 50% of instruction in Spanish from Kindergarten to Fifth grade.
• Their child will receive literacy instruction in both Spanish and English.
• Their child will develop bilingual (listening and speaking) and bi-literate (reading and writing) competencies.
• As a parent, they will attend the scheduled Dual Language Program parent meetings and workshops, and when possible, participate in Dual Language events.

It is important to speak to their child to ensure their motivation and desire to learn in two languages.

Tours

We welcome you to come take a tour of our school and check out both our Dual Language and our extensive Arts Program.  Tours begin in October.  Please email Nephatira Glover, Campus Culture Coordinator or Schedule a tour Online

All individuals interested in applying for our Dual Language Program must submit their applications through the Choice Office.  We recommend attending the Showcase of Schools fair, which takes place in October.  For more information visit our School Choice page or visit mypbchoiceapp.com for choice application submission dates and information.

For specific questions about the Dual Language Program, please contact:
Carolyn Rivabella
Dual Language Coach & ESOL Coordinator
(561) 330-3924

*Note: For questions specific to the application process, contact Nephatira Glover.