Dual Language: Learning in Two Languages

Dual Language is an academic program that enhances the development of bilingualism, biculturalism, and biliteracy so that students will graduate ready for college, career, and life in a globally competitive economy.

The Gift of Language

Dual Language education offers great advantages for our students.

• Students in dual language programs do as well or better than students learning only in English on standardized tests given in English.
• Students participating in dual language programs close the achievement gap that currently exists between English Language Learners and general education students.
• Students in dual language programs develop respect for multiple cultural heritages.
• Students' cognitive function is positively impacted when they learn a second language.
• Students in dual language programs increase their marketable skills in a global society.

Austin ISD Dual Language Program Goals

1. Students will develop a high linguistic proficiency in two languages.
2. Students will develop a high academic proficiency in two languages.
3. Students will develop positive cross-cultural attitudes.
4. Students will participate in a rigorous academic program that accelerates their learning.

"One-Way" and "Two-Way"

One-Way Dual Language supports "one language" group of students to become bilingual, bicultural , and biliterate. For example, students whose primary language is Spanish would learn in English and Spanish.

Two-Way Dual Language supports "two language" groups of students to become bilingual, bicultural , and biliterate. For example, equal number of Spanish-speaking and English-speaking students would learn in both languages.

AISD Dual Language Instructional Model

The Dual Language Instructional Model will be implemented in both the One-Way and Two-Way Dual Language classrooms.

• Reading and Language Arts
  Pre-K, K and grade 1 - In native language only
  Grades 2 through 5 - In both languages
• Mathematics
  Pre-K through grade 5 - In English
• Science & Social Studies
  Pre-K through grade 5 - in Spanish