Encouraging Dual Language Students to Speak Spanish

Abstract

Many students at the Albany International Center and Dual Language Program resist speaking Spanish. English is clearly very dominant, and students can observe that in their day to day lives. The students make correlations between those who speak English and their positions in society. Perceptions based on languages are formed due to this separation of languages. Teachers from Pre-K to 5th grade face the same challenge: students responding in English during Spanish instruction time. The literature shows that teachers encounter obstacles including the availability of materials in languages other than English. Existing policies and administrators that teachers must follow leave them feeling defeated in the promotion of bilingualism. A professional development is designed to help teachers create a bilingual environment.