Making Space for Native Languages in Newcomer Classrooms

Summary

The transcript highlights the importance of language as a core part of identity, emphasizing how students can learn English without losing their heritage languages. Mr. Tovar fosters a diverse classroom environment, encouraging students from various backgrounds to embrace their languages while developing proficiency in English. The use of translanguaging, collaborative learning, and celebrating failure cultivates a supportive atmosphere where students feel confident. By valuing their linguistic heritage, the goal is to create bilingual and bi-literate individuals who can bridge communities and contribute positively to society.

Takeaways

• 😀 Embracing heritage languages enriches the learning experience for students.
• 😀 Students are encouraged to be confident learners without sacrificing their identity.
• 😀 Language diversity in classrooms presents challenges but also opportunities for growth.
• 😀 Proficiency in a student's primary language supports learning in their secondary language.
• 😀 Translanguaging allows students to fluidly switch between languages, enhancing communication.
• 😀 Collaborative learning fosters teamwork and helps students support one another.
• 😀 Celebrating failure is essential in creating a risk-taking environment for learning.
• 😀 Research indicates that bilingual students can outperform monolingual peers.
• 😀 Heritage language development is key to achieving bilingualism and biliteracy.
• 😀 Being multilingual helps students connect with diverse communities and become bridge makers.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Mr. Tovar's teaching approach?

Mr. Tovar emphasizes valuing the whole student by integrating their heritage languages into the classroom to support English language learning.

How does Mr. Tovar address the diverse linguistic backgrounds of his students?

He recognizes and encourages the use of multiple languages in the classroom, allowing students to leverage their primary languages to aid their English learning.

What is the significance of 'translanguaging' mentioned in the transcript?

Translanguaging refers to the practice of fluidly switching between languages, which helps students enhance their language skills by using both their primary and secondary languages.

Why is it important for students to develop their heritage language?

Developing their heritage language is crucial for maintaining linguistic proficiency, which supports their overall language development and confidence in learning English.

What roles do students have within their 'home team'?

Each student has a specific role, such as Chief Technology Officer or team captain, which encourages collaboration and peer support within the team.

How does Mr. Tovar foster a positive classroom environment regarding failure?

He creates an atmosphere where failure is celebrated as a learning opportunity, encouraging students to take risks and try again without fear of judgment.

What benefits do students experience when they are reclassified from English language learners?

Research indicates that reclassified students tend to outperform their monolingual peers, highlighting the effectiveness of bilingual education.

How does Mr. Tovar encourage language practice among his students?

He provides ample opportunities for students to speak in both their heritage language and English, promoting language proficiency through practice.

What ultimate goal does Mr. Tovar have for his students regarding language?

His goal is for students to become bilingual and bi-literate, enabling them to contribute to their communities and act as bridges between cultures.

What impact does a diverse classroom have on Mr. Tovar's teaching methods?

The diversity in his classroom presents challenges that require tailored strategies to effectively engage students and address their unique linguistic needs.