Sixth International Conference on Immersion and Dual Language Education: Connecting Research and Practice Across Contexts

Paper/Best Practice Session (1 hour)

Spanish/English

One-Way Second/Foreign Language Immersion
Two-Way Bilingual Immersion

Elementary (K-5)

How does the inquiry model support language learning? Project-based learning (PBL) that follows the inquiry model integrates language, culture and personal experiences through active participation and investigation in the target language. This session will explore sample K-5 dual language units that are inquiry-based and support PBL.

"Kids are like sponges". This is a common expression when it comes to elementary students and language learning. And it's true that young children typically absorb languages more easily than adults. But, as language teachers, do we want our students to be passive sponges or active explorers and detectives? Effective teachers understand that their students best acquire the target language by doing rather than simply absorbing. But what does this look like in kindergarten, when students are developing basic skills at a novice level or in upper elementary when students have developed more advanced speaking, reading, writing and listening skills?  This session will explore the impact of integrating an inquiry model with project-based learning (PBL) in Spanish immersion K-5 lessons and units. With scaffolding, authentic target language resources, and student-led learning, this lesson format can help the target language come to life for students across grade levels.