#1. Bilingualism
Definition
The ability to speak and understand two languages. Notice how it’s not speaking and understanding two languages with 100% accuracy or fluency. In fact, according to many academics bilingualism is defined quite simply as the everyday use of more than one language or dialect. This definition is pragmatic, practical, and broad, since it explicitly does not imply, as often assumed, the fluent mastery of two languages.
Importance
Bilingualism is increasingly seen as a valuable skill in our globalized world, opening up opportunities for communication, employment, and cultural exchange. As businesses become more globalized, the demand for bilingual talent continues to increase.
#2. Code-Switching
Definition
The practice of alternating between two or more languages or dialects within a conversation. When it happens between Spanish and English, it’s usually called Spanglish.
But the fascinating thing about code-switching is that there are actual grammatical rules that are followed and, a lot of the time, the reason for the switching is to communicate more effectively. (Note: While code-switching originated in linguistics, it has since evolved to encompass meanings beyond the linguistic realm.)
Importance
Code-switching reflects a high level of linguistic competence and allows speakers to express themselves more fully and appropriately in different social settings. Phillip Carter, a bilingual expert who studies code-switching, reminds us this is not the first time English has been profoundly transformed by bilingualism. After the Norman conquest of England in 1066, French entered Old English through loanwords. The mix, and other linguistic influences such as Latin, helped create the English we speak today.
#3. Translanguaging
Definition
The process of using multiple language practices to make meaning, communicate, and learn. In a translanguaging classroom, students might read a text in one language and discuss it in another.
Importance
This approach recognizes the fluidity of bilingual communication and leverages all linguistic resources available to learners, promoting deeper understanding and learning. New York City has a wonderful initiative in which they are radically changing the way language learning is viewed and used in the classroom. It considers the language practices of bilingual individuals as the standard, rather than those of monolinguals.
#4. Scaffolding
Definition
A teaching tool that provides support to help learners achieve a higher level of understanding and skill. By using these tools or strategies, you set up your learners for success and, eventually, greater independence in the learning process.
Importance
Scaffolding is crucial for helping learners build confidence and competence, gradually removing supports as they become more independent.
At Sol Book Box, we tailor our books to your bebe’s level of language development using our stage-based curation beginning with Foundational Concepts all the way to Mastery and Fluency.
#5. Fluency
Definition
Fluency is an oft-discussed term among linguists (and most don’t agree on how to define it). In the traditional sense fluency means the ability to speak, understand, read, and write proficiently in two languages. But how does this account for waves of proficiency across skills? For example, does fluency always have to mean excellent oral comprehension or excellent writing skills or both? And to what degree? A leading linguist, François Grosjean, suggests that instead of using fluency to measure how “bilingual” someone is, instead we should focus on their use of the language (or languages).
Importance
Fluency changes according to context.
In reality, most bilinguals aren't equally fluent in both languages, may have an accent in at least one, and often learn new languages later in life.
They use their languages for different things in different parts of their lives, and how well they speak a language depends on how much they need it.
By familiarizing yourself with these key terms and concepts, you'll be better equipped to navigate the world of bilingual learning. ¡Feliz aprendizaje!
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Karina Batchelor is a proud Latinx mama from Miami, la ciudad magica. She's a longtime educator, writer, and creative who holds multiple degrees in varied areas of study. Her qualifications have seen her excel across the US and the UK in various sectors of the education and theatre industry. You can often find her with a cafecito in hand at the nearest library, her homeschooling cooperative, or at the theatre, where she works as a professional dramaturg.
