Dual Language K-6
Gilbert Elementary offers families the unique opportunity to enroll their children in a dual language program from kindergarten through 5th grade. This program allows students the advantage of learning their grade-level content in two languages, English and Spanish. The focus of the program is to develop culturally responsive, active learners who are intellectually challenged and engaged.
What is Dual Language?
Dual language is a bilingual education model that uses English and a partner language (Spanish at Gilbert) for 50% of instructional time. These programs generally begin in kindergarten and roll up one grade level per year. A clear separation of languages is essential with a commitment to stay in the target language and encourage students to use that target language during target language time as well. Having a clear articulation of the program will also ensure its success.
The Dual Language Philosophy
Dual language at GPS will prepare students for full participation in the global economy. Using the research-based dual language instructional model, participating students develop proficiency in two languages while learning grade-level academic content.
Dual Language Contact
Renita Miller
Program Benefits
- Enhanced Cognitive Skills: By being immersed in two languages throughout the academic school day, dual language students develop 3-4 strong modalities (learning styles), similar to gifted students. Dual language students develop cognitive flexibility, demonstrating increased attention control, better memory, and superior problem-solving skills as well as an enhanced understanding of their primary language.
- Strong Second Language Skills: Dual language students graduate their programs being bilingual, bi-literate in two languages.
- Global Economy Participation: This program model is the only one that allows for students to reach levels of language proficiency needed for full participation in the global economy.
- Enhanced Cultural Sensitivity: Culture and language are interrelated. Therefore, students participating in the dual language program develop intercultural competence, meaning they learn to use language appropriately in different cultural contexts. Students become adept at accepting and becoming comfortable with others' differences.
Dual Language Resources
- Engaging Every Student - Dual Language Resources
- Brain Benefits
- The benefits of speaking more than one language - The World Economic Forum
- The Benefits of a Bilingual Brain - Mia Nacamulli
It’s obvious that knowing more than one language can make certain things easier — like traveling or watching movies without subtitles. But are there other advantages to having a bilingual (or multilingual) brain? Mia Nacamulli details the three types of bilingual brains and shows how knowing more than one language keeps your brain healthy, complex and actively engaged.
Dual Language FAQs
- What are the benefits of a Dual Language program?
- What is the instructional model of Dual Language that is used?
- What is the instruction like?
- What type of curriculum is used?
- How are students assessed to measure Spanish proficiency?
- What is the enrollment process?
- Where can I find more information about Dual Language?
- Is the Dual Language program the same as a bilingual program?
- Is there a fee to enroll my child?
- Are there gifted/resource services?
- How can I help my child at home if I do not speak Spanish?
- Will my child still have specials or electives?
- Is there a Parent Advisory Committee?