Lesson 8: Language Barriers


Attentioncartoon of four young girls talking


Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this lesson's material, students will be able

  • Identify and explain the myths of dual language learning.

  • Explain the importance of supporting the home language.

  • Explain how the Maine Early Learning Guidelines apply to dual language learning.


Teaching

Dual language learners, learners who are learning two languages at the same time, are the fastest growing segment of our population and currently make up about 25% of our current population of young children.. If you have not worked with any children who are learning more than one language then it is certain that you will soon. To support this increase in English language learners, educators are beginning to understand how to best support dual language learners and their language and literacy development. Although you may not work with a linguistically diverse population, it is important to understand that what was once common practice is no longer is Today, we now know that learning more than one language at the same time does NOT interfere with the acquisition of typical development milestones (in any domain). Children who use their home language actually helps them learn English. Often times it is the adult’s anxiety, and not the child’s, that can interfere with language development.

In this lesson, you will gain a better understanding of how to support children in your program whose first language is not English. By understanding the myths, you will then be able to understand how develop appropriate language and literacy guideline expectations.

For the assignments, you will need to

 

  


Assessment

Lesson 8 Discussion - Common Myths

After reading Challenging Common Myths About Dual Language Learners, describe two things that surprised you the most and why it is important to support the home language.

Lesson 8 Assignment

Watch the video Supporting English Language Learners in the Preschool Classroom. Using the template, provide an example from the video for each reflection and explain how it aligns with the Maine Early Learning Guidelines.