Frequently Asked Questions
From LiteracyTentWiki
--FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Submitted by Paul Rogers, May 24, 2010
Question 1: What is the definition of a “bilingual method”?
Answer: By “bilingual method” I mean that the adult ESL class should include instruction in the students’ native languages. All students should have their own bilingual dictionaries and, if possible, texts, audio cds, and dvds.
Question 2: Which students should be taught bilingually?
Answer: Students who know little or no English.
Question 3: Why don’t you simply teach in an English Only (EO) setting in the first place? After all the students are there to learn English.
Answer: There is no evidence that teaching ESL in an EO class is more effective that a bilingual class. Actually, the opposite is true.
Question 4: How can an ESL class be taught bilingually when the class consists of students who speak different languages?
Answer: Beginning students need to learn a “Basic Vocabulary” and pronunciation during the first three months of instruction. Students can use their bilingual dictionaries to translate each vocabulary lesson. A certain amount of time can be spent comparing translations. In addition, there are many teachers’ aides available. For example, if there are computers in the class, Spanish speakers can study PUMAROSA while the teacher pays attention to the students who do not speak Spanish.
Question 5: Isn’t a bilingual class the same as doing everything twice?
Answer: This question reflects a lack of understanding of how adults learn English. All students automatically translate the vocabulary and often write the word twice in their notebooks: the way the word is written and the way it is pronounced. It is a lot easier and faster if the students are provided with this information in the first place.
Question 6: How can you prevent the students who do not speak Spanish from quitting the class?
Answer: The bilingual method is not confined to teaching only Spanish speakers. Besides, the opposite is also true: many Spanish speakers (or other students) drop out of EO classes because they do not understand what is going on.
