Dual Language Students and Teacher's Rock!

Glenbrook Elementary is proud to offer the Dual Language Program to all students. Each classroom in our 2-way Dual Language program contains students whose home language is English and students whose home language is Spanish. The program which runs from Kindergarten through 6^th grade, is preparing our students to be bilingual, bi-literate and bicultural.

 In kindergarten our teachers know that learning through play is vital to the students’ success.  As children are engaging in purposeful play, they are working hard to problem solve, develop important social skills, and to build their spoken vocabulary.  Since the students are learning in two languages, the cooperative conversations that happen during play helps to build their understanding of the new language.  To further develop these skills, teachers organize the classroom creating spaces for creative learning.  Students play dominos, helps with scanning, writing, and one to one correspondence. Students also work independently either reading to self or scanning for words that begin with a particular initial letter. The initial letter they have to find is determined by a worksheet they have. Students in the below photos are using play in math and art. Math using a sensory tray... and Art, if you noticed he labeled the picture he painted. If students want to draw/paint the teacher tells them that must label or write a brief description of their drawing. 

                                                                

                      

In first grade student learn a lot about cultures and traditions.  Through stories and experiences they can build their knowledge in many new concepts.  Recently in our classrooms teachers read What can you do with a Rebozo? ¿Que puedes hacer con un rebozo?   A rebozo is a traditional garment in the Mexican culture that has many uses.  The teachers brought in authentic materials to build background knowledge and explore multicultural artifacts.  Students worked with a rebozo to explore the different things they could do with it. Through this activity students were able to expand their understanding of our multicultural world.

            

 Having real life experiences is an excellent way to build vocabulary and understanding of important concepts.  Our 2^nd and 3^rd grade classrooms took a recent trip to the National Museum of Mexican Art. They enjoyed the Dia de los Muertos exhibit and learned about traditions in Puelba, Chiapas and around Mexico.  They also saw a special presentation  made for the victims of the Machester concert in May.  

To really learn a language well, the students in all grades need visual supports available. Teachers work with students to create anchor charts which will assist them as they learn the new language, find commonalities between the languages and explore differences in the ways each language works. 

Word walls help students to learn new vocabulary. Adding a visual picture and context helps them to understand and use the new words. Spanish word walls are typically organized by word patterns, syllables or content area.  Having the students do the writing and adding visuals support the learners.   The word walls build in complexity throughout the grades and students use them interactively throughout the year. Teachers and students also create anchor charts for cognates; words that are similar in English and Spanish. 

Teachers work with students in small group to individualize the learning.  While children are working with their peers it’s helpful for them to have discussions about what they are learning. This practice builds confidence as students learn the new language while securing content skills. 

We are now accepting applications for enrollment into the dual language program. All incoming kindergarten and first grade students are eligible. The program includes Spanish and English dominant students, so if you are interested, please follow the below link to secure a spot.  If you would like further information, please contact me, Cheryl DeRoo, at 630-231-5555 or at cherylderoo@u-46.org. 

Dual Language Interest forms