{"id":354887,"date":"2016-04-04T11:01:45","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T16:01:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/education\/discrimination-harassment-at-school\/types-of-bilingual-education.html"},"modified":"2023-11-08T10:15:49","modified_gmt":"2023-11-08T15:15:49","slug":"types-of-bilingual-education","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/education\/discrimination-harassment-at-school\/types-of-bilingual-education.html","title":{"rendered":"Types of Bilingual Education"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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Types of Bilingual Education<\/h1>\n
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\n By Jade Yeban, Esq.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Susan Mills Richmond, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n

Bilingual education is the practice of teaching academic content in two languages. In the U.S., it often means teaching students in two languages. In bilingual education programs, children are taught in both their native language and the English language. This approach promotes biliteracy, cultural awareness, and high academic achievement.<\/p>\r\n

There are an increasing number of English Language Learners<\/a> (ELLs). This is especially true in states like California, Texas, and New York., so it’s important to understand the different methods of bilingual education. Public school systems across America vary in how they offer bilingual education.<\/p>\r\n

The following information covers the basic types of bilingual education.<\/p>\r\n

A Background of Bilingual Education in the United States<\/h2>\r\n

Historically, bilingual education in the U.S. has its roots in civil rights movements. The U.S. Department of Education<\/a> introduced policies to support non-English speaking students. They did this through Title VII of the Education Amendments. <\/a>This was an important educational amendment, especially in states with large multilingual populations.<\/p>\r\n

Over time, various states have modified their education policies, including Arizona, Massachusetts, and California. They have allowed for the introduction or restriction of certain bilingual approaches.<\/p>\r\n

In the 21st century, about three million children in the U.S. were Limited English Proficient<\/a> (LEP). These students would need to take part in so-called "immersion programs." These programs lasted for much of the 20th century. Here, students received English-only instruction. There was no integration between English and their native tongue. Many believed this was the fastest way to integrate a child.<\/p>\r\n

Beginning in the 1960s, there was a gradual shift toward bilingual education. This meant students could master English while retaining their native-language skills. The shift toward bilingual education reflects a growing recognition of the benefits of multilingualism. Schools across the nation are now emphasizing the importance of acquiring a second language. This goes along with mastery of the student’s native language.<\/p>\r\n

This evolution is particularly evident in secondary education. The curriculum often includes courses tailored to enhance both linguistic and cultural competencies. By embracing both a student’s native language and a second language, the education system acknowledges the richness of diversity. It also recognizes the invaluable skill of bilingualism in a globalized world.<\/p>\r\n

Types of Bilingual Education<\/h2>\r\n

The following are different types of bilingual education offered in the U.S.:<\/p>\r\n