“How Did You Learn to Write in English When You Haven't Been Taught in English?”: The Language Experience Approach in a Dual Language Program

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe a supportive cultural and linguistic environment where students are learning a second language naturally. The classroom described is in a school that proposes to implement a dual language approach. The case study reports on the use of language experience and a natural approach to learning languages in a dual language kindergarten class. The importance of trained bilingual education teachers and of dedicated and committed administrative staff to native language instruction is stressed in the article. Above all, the students' ability and pride in their native language and eagerness to learn English is apparent.