Sociolinguistics of Bilingual Education Final

Summary

Julie Lent's presentation on sociolinguistics and bilingual education highlights three key takeaways: the importance of critical literacy in helping children understand diverse perspectives, the concept of code-switching and code-crossing in language learning, and the fascinating dynamics of pidgins and creoles. She also delves into bilingual education policies, focusing on the Lau Plan and the history of bilingual education in the U.S. Julie reflects on her own field experience and research, showcasing how these insights will shape her future role as an ESL educator. Her presentation emphasizes the relevance of these concepts in fostering inclusive and effective education.

Takeaways

• 😀 Critical literacy involves reading texts thoroughly to understand different perspectives, encouraging respect for various cultures and viewpoints.
• 😀 Teachers should incorporate critical literacy strategies in their classrooms to ensure students engage with articles from multiple cultural lenses.
• 😀 Code-switching, the act of switching between languages, is common when learning a new language and should be understood and monitored by ESL educators.
• 😀 Code-crossing refers to language alteration by those not accepted within the group, and it’s essential to recognize this in the context of language learning.
• 😀 Borrowing across languages involves incorporating words or phrases from one language into another, often observed in travel-related contexts like the word 'taxi.'
• 😀 The word 'taxi' is an example of borrowing across languages, as it is used similarly in multiple languages (e.g., English, Spanish, German, Russian).
• 😀 Pidgins and Creoles are fascinating linguistic phenomena where certain languages are restricted, with some even considered secret or forbidden.
• 😀 Some regions, including the U.S., have specific Creoles like Gullah, which are not widely recognized or taught in mainstream education systems.
• 😀 The Lau Plan, stemming from the Lau vs. Nicholls case in 1974, was a significant movement in bilingual education, ensuring non-English-speaking students had access to appropriate education.
• 😀 The Bilingual Education Act, established after 1974, provided funding and resources for public schools to support ESL programs and culturally relevant education.

Q & A

What is critical literacy, and why is it important in the classroom?

Critical literacy involves reading texts thoroughly to understand different perspectives, including the author's background, cultural influences, and intended audience. It is crucial in the classroom to promote empathy and respect for diverse viewpoints, especially in today's world of social justice movements.

How does critical language relate to critical literacy?

Critical language builds on critical literacy by helping children speak in a way that is sensitive to others' viewpoints. It fosters respectful and understanding communication, preventing unintentional harm when discussing cultural differences.

What is code-switching, and why is it common in bilingual individuals?

Code-switching is the practice of switching between languages, especially when one language lacks the right word or expression. It is common in bilingual individuals who are learning a new language and trying to express themselves confidently.

What is code-crossing, and how is it different from code-switching?

Code-crossing is the act of using a language from a different group, often in contexts where the speaker is not a member of that group. It differs from code-switching, which typically involves shifting between languages that the speaker is familiar with.

What does borrowing across languages mean, and can you give an example?

Borrowing across languages refers to the introduction of words or phrases from one language into another. An example is the word 'taxi,' which is used similarly in English, Spanish, German, and Russian, highlighting common borrowed terms across languages.

What are pidgins and creoles, and why are they important in linguistics?

Pidgins are simplified languages that arise when groups with no common language need to communicate. Creoles are fully developed languages that evolve from pidgins. These languages are crucial in linguistics as they showcase how languages evolve and adapt in specific social contexts.

Why are pidgins and creoles considered 'restricted' languages?

Pidgins and creoles are often seen as 'restricted' because they are typically spoken by specific communities or in particular settings. Their status can be seen as limited compared to more widely spoken languages.

What is the Lau Plan, and how does it relate to bilingual education?

The Lau Plan is a policy guideline originating from the Lau v. Nichols Supreme Court case (1974). It ensures that non-English speaking students receive appropriate education, including ESL programs, to provide them with a fair chance at academic success.

How did the Lau v. Nichols case impact bilingual education in the U.S.?

The Lau v. Nichols case was a landmark decision that mandated the provision of bilingual education to non-English speaking students in U.S. public schools. It helped shape the structure of ESL programs and pushed for educational equality for language minority students.

What was Julie Lent's personal experience with the Lau Plans during her field experience?

Julie Lent had a firsthand encounter with Lau Plans during her field experience at Fredericksburg Elementary. Her teacher introduced her to the Lau Plan, giving her a deeper understanding of the rights of ESL students and how schools are required to implement these plans for fair education.