Teaching Multilingual Children, Collier
Quotes
"Be aware that children use first language acquisition strategies for learning a second language."
With this first quote, Collier is saying that we learn a second language the same way we learned English growing up. He states, "There are predictable stages and strategies in this process..." The steps include: identifying and recognizing speech patterns, simplification by only using one or two thoughtful word phrases, speaking in full sentences with grammatical errors, speaking in full sentences grammatically correctly, using figurative speech, speaking fluently.
"Don't teach a second language in any way that challenges or seeks to eliminate the first language. "
In this second quote, Collier emphasizes the importance of maintaining a open-minded outlook when teaching a second language The second language acquisition process should occur with no intent of disregarding or replacing the first language. On the contrary, the second language should be taught parallel to the first language, to enforce the acceptance of the diversity of spoken communication. Even when mistakes are made, "To affirm the home language means that they will not be told that they are wrong, or that what they say is vulgar or bad," instead they should be encouraged and supported on the long journey of second language acquisition.
"Provide a balanced and integrated approach to the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing."
With this last quote, Corrier makes clear the necessity that is learning a second language with regards to all aspects of communication. Furthermore, the common classroom approach of the teacher lecturing and students listening is not effective. Students must be encouraged to write, respond, and read in addition to listening. As explained in the article Strategies to Teach English as a Second Language, it is explained that it is very important for students to interact with the new language thorugh multiple methods, such as movies and other multimedia tools.
Comments to Share in Class
In an English-dominated society that we live in, I believe that learning a second language is often overlooked. People view it as unnecessary since it might not be used on a day-to-day basis. In my view, I believe learning a second language has many advantages such as increasing your self-confidence, improving your employability, and transforming you future travel experience. Although it may seem as a rather long commitment, the rewards in the end are fantastic.
"Be aware that children use first language acquisition strategies for learning a second language."
"Don't teach a second language in any way that challenges or seeks to eliminate the first language. "
In this second quote, Collier emphasizes the importance of maintaining a open-minded outlook when teaching a second language The second language acquisition process should occur with no intent of disregarding or replacing the first language. On the contrary, the second language should be taught parallel to the first language, to enforce the acceptance of the diversity of spoken communication. Even when mistakes are made, "To affirm the home language means that they will not be told that they are wrong, or that what they say is vulgar or bad," instead they should be encouraged and supported on the long journey of second language acquisition.
"Provide a balanced and integrated approach to the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing."
With this last quote, Corrier makes clear the necessity that is learning a second language with regards to all aspects of communication. Furthermore, the common classroom approach of the teacher lecturing and students listening is not effective. Students must be encouraged to write, respond, and read in addition to listening. As explained in the article Strategies to Teach English as a Second Language, it is explained that it is very important for students to interact with the new language thorugh multiple methods, such as movies and other multimedia tools.Comments to Share in Class
In an English-dominated society that we live in, I believe that learning a second language is often overlooked. People view it as unnecessary since it might not be used on a day-to-day basis. In my view, I believe learning a second language has many advantages such as increasing your self-confidence, improving your employability, and transforming you future travel experience. Although it may seem as a rather long commitment, the rewards in the end are fantastic.
Josh, I want to agree with your point that learning a second language is often overlooked. A point that I want to bring up is that many other countries outside of the United States require students to learn english up until they reach the university level, while schools in the United States require only 2-4 years. I did grow up bilingual, but that allowed me to speak more confidently when traveling, as well as become closer to friends and family that lives in other countries. It also looks really good on applications!
ReplyDeleteJosh I also agree that learning a second language is overlooked. A second language is so vital in this day and age to be able to communicate with everyone around you. Its sad that most schools (that i know of) don't make it a mandatory class. It can be just as important as english or math.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you mentioned the second quote because I completely agree. If you are learning a second language then the teacher should be teaching you to maintain the language you already speak while adding on a new one. I also agree with your third quote where there should be multiple strategies and skills when it comes to learning a new language. I know when I was in high school they never really taught us how to speak the language but more to read and write it, so I think they should be teaching each learning skill equally. Overall, great job!
ReplyDeleteI agree that learning a second language is overlooked. As much as I hated learning spanish throughout middle and high-school I would not have changed that experience for the world. While I am not fluent in spanish it has helped me immensely over the years and i think it should be required before college as well.
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