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Dual Language

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The Dual Language program is a researched based enrichment model of instruction that values the acquisition of language and the use of two or more languages as a tool for learning in the classroom.  The goals of the program are those based on research from the Center of Applied Linguistics (CAL).
The Three Pillars of Dual Language Programming:

  1. Bilingualism and biliteracy. Because students are learning content via two languages, they must be able to speak, write, read, listen, and use each of the two program languages as a support for the other.

  2. Ensuring high academic achievement for each student in both program languages. This is extremely important because students in dual language programs must excel in mathematics, science, social studies, language arts, physical education, music, and art, in both languages of instruction.

  3. Sociocultural competence. Students in dual language programs should be able to see the similarities and differences in each other, but rather than identifying the differences as obstacles, they should be viewed as opportunities to connect. 

The Dual Language program in the MSD of Lawrence Township follows Indiana Academic Standards and is nationally recognized for its high levels of academic achievement. It is the longest standing and only K-12 dual langauge model in the state.

Two-Way Dual Language Immersion

  • Classroom comprised of approximately 50% native English speakers and 50% native Spanish speakers.
  • 80% Spanish and 20% English instruction in Kindergarten through 2nd grade
  • 70% Spanish and 30% English instruction in 3rd grade
  • 50% Spanish and 50% English instruction in 4th through 6th grade
  • Spanish content focused on Science, Social Studies, and Mathematics
  • Intentional time to build the target language
  • Research based enrichment model of instruction 

This program is offered at Forest Glen and Skiles Test Elementary Schools. Forest Glen students continue their Spanish language acquisition program at Fall Creek Valley Middle School and Lawrence North High School. Over time, the Dual Immersion Program will matriculate to Belzer Middle School and Lawrence Central High School.

  • Forest Glen Spanish Immersion
  • Skiles Test Spanish Immersion
  • Sunnyside Spanish Immersion
  • Fall Creek Valley Spanish Immersion
  • Lawrence North Spanish Immersion
     

One-Way Dual Language Immersion

  • Classroom comprised of Native Spanish speakers
  • 80% Spanish and 20% English instruction in Kindergarten through 2nd grade
  • 70% Spanish and 30% English instruction in 3rd grade
  • 50% Spanish and 50% English instruction in 4th through 6th grade
  • Spanish content focused on Science, Social Studies, and Mathematics
  • Intentional time to build the target language
  • Research based enrichment model of instruction for second language learners

This program model is offered at Sunnyside, Mary Castle, Indian Creek, and Harrison Hill Elementary Schools.  A similar model is also offered in kindergarten classrooms at the Early Learning Center (ELC) Brook Park and Winding Ridge.

  • Harrison Hill Elementary
  • Indian Creek Elementary
  • Mary Castle Elementary
  • Sunnyside Elementary
  • Early Learning Center at Brook Park
  • Early Learning Center at Winding Ridge
     

Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency

multilingual proficiency certificate

In 2016, Indiana passed legislation that will recognize students for their achievement in becoming bilingual and bi-literate.  Beginning in 2017, students who meet specific criteria can graduate from high school with the “Certificate of Multilingual Proficiency” which will designate on the student's transcript that they have attained a high level of proficiency, sufficient for meaningful use in college and a career, in one or more languages in addition to English.  Students must pass the English graduating exam and the language proficiency exam to qualify. 

International Spanish Academies

All Lawrence Township Immersion schools are members of the International Spanish Academies (ISAs) which are educational centers known for their academic prestige, encompassing all grade levels from Pre K through 12th grade.  The schools all maintain a collaborative agreement with the Ministry of Education of Spain which provides teachers with access to professional development and resources necessary for Spanish Immersion programming. For more information about the International Spanish Academies, please click here. 

Heritage Language

Heritage Language classes are offered to students who have an oral Spanish language capacity and are interested in enriching their language development to become readers and writers of Spanish.  The goal of the course is to develop students to be bilingual and bi-literate at high levels of proficiency.  This course is offered at Belzer Middle School, Fall Creek Valley Middle School, Lawrence Central High School and Lawrence North High School.

 

For more information, please contact:

Ms. Georgina Mayorga-Schneider
Assistant Director of Language Programs
(317) 423-8319
(Contact Georgina Mayorga-Schneider)