Great Ideas: Translanguaging

Summary

Translanguaging is a pedagogical strategy that leverages the use of multiple languages in the classroom to enhance learning, particularly for English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners. It involves activities like bilingual glossaries, translating, drafting in first language, and group discussions in native languages. This approach not only values multilingualism but also aids in the development of both the first and second languages, making learning more inclusive and effective. Tips for its classroom application and independent learning are also provided, emphasizing its potential to foster a supportive learning environment.

Takeaways

• 🌐 Translanguaging is a pedagogical strategy that involves the intentional use of different languages in a classroom setting.
• 📚 Pedagogical translanguaging, coined by Cenoz and Gutta, is particularly relevant for classroom teachers looking to integrate multiple languages.
• 🔄 The purpose of translanguaging is to combine two or more languages systematically within the same activity for teaching and learning.
• 📝 Bilingual and multilingual glossaries can support learners with English as an Additional Language (EAL) by leveraging their prior knowledge.
• 🔍 Focusing on differences between languages, such as spelling or grammar, can help improve EAL learners' English language skills.
• 📝 Drafting writing in a learner's first language before translating it into English can result in higher quality work and ease the cognitive load.
• 🎥 Encouraging EAL learners to use resources in their first language, like Khan Academy, can enhance their understanding and engagement with the subject matter.
• 🗣 Group discussions in a learner's first language can facilitate brainstorming before reporting back in English, promoting collaborative learning.
• 🏫 Translanguaging conveys to EAL learners that their multilingual background is valued, which can increase their sense of inclusion and motivation.
• 🔄 Maintaining and developing a learner's first language is beneficial for their second language development and overall school motivation.
• 📋 Translanguaging can be effectively used for independent learning at home, where learners can engage with content in their first language and then produce school work in English.
• 🤝 Collaborative learning can extend beyond the classroom through online platforms, allowing EAL learners to work with English speakers using translation tools for communication.

Q & A

What is trans languaging in the context of education?

Trans languaging is a pedagogical strategy that involves the intentional use of different languages in the classroom or similar teaching and learning contexts. It aims to systematically combine two or more languages as part of the same activity, helping learners use all the languages at their disposal for educational purposes.

Who coined the term 'pedagogical trans languaging'?

The term 'pedagogical trans languaging' was coined by Cenoz and Gauta.

How can trans languaging be practically applied in the classroom?

Trans languaging can be applied by using bilingual or multilingual glossaries, encouraging learners to translate words into other languages, allowing learners to draft writing in their first language before translating it into English, and using first-language resources like websites and videos for research.

What is the purpose of using bilingual or multilingual glossaries in a trans languaging approach?

The purpose of using bilingual or multilingual glossaries is to help learners with English as an Additional Language (EAL) build on their prior knowledge, focus on language differences, and improve their English language skills.

How can trans languaging benefit learners when producing an extended piece of writing?

Trans languaging can benefit learners by allowing them to draft their writing in their first language, which helps them focus on content without the added pressure of expressing it in English. This can result in a higher quality final product when translated into English.

What role does the first language play in trans languaging for research purposes?

For research, learners can use their first language to read about a topic or watch videos before participating in lessons conducted in English. This helps them better understand the material and engage with it in English later.

How can trans languaging increase a learner's motivation and sense of inclusion in school?

Trans languaging conveys the message that multilingualism and a learner's background are valued, which can increase their feeling of inclusion and motivation for learning. It also supports the maintenance and development of their first language, which can aid in learning the second language.

What is a top tip for using trans languaging in the classroom?

A top tip is to make it explicit to EAL learners that they are encouraged to use their first language in the classroom. This can help them develop both their first language and English.

How can trans languaging be applied to independent learning at home?

At home, learners can watch videos or read about topics in their first language, make notes, and later discuss or write about the material in English. This approach leverages the natural trans languaging environment at home.

How can trans languaging be used for collaborative learning with an English speaker?

Two learners speaking different languages can collaborate on a piece of writing using tools like Google Docs. They can use comments and translation tools to communicate and work together, which may not be as easily done in a physical classroom.