ELLs & Bilinguals Maintaining Pride and Use of Native Language and Culture

Abstract

English Language Learners (ELLs) and Bilingual students struggle to maintain use and pride in their native language (L1) and culture as they begin to assimilate into American society and learn English. Research identifies three main challenges faced by ELL and bilingual students as they learn English while trying to maintain their native language and culture. These challenges include difficulties in maintaining native culture, the pressure to assimilate, and the insufficient of preparation of educators in effectively teaching ELLs and bilingual students. Findings reveal possible solutions to improve the issues of ELL and bilingual student losing use of L1 and pride in their native culture such as translanguaging, code switching, and culturally responsive teaching. To help educators address these challenges, a professional development is designed for the Washington Heights Academy, inviting all educators and specialist to participate. The main objectives of the professional development are to delve into theories that shed light on the significance of finding solutions for the identified challenges, gain a better understanding of the issues at hand, engage in content-based learning and discussions with fellow colleagues, and ultimately equip educators with practical strategies to effectively support ELL and bilingual learners. Recommendations include organizing school events that celebrate the diverse cultures and languages represented by students and conducting further research that explores different pedagogies and support methods employed for ELL and bilingual learners in other countries.