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

October 20–22, 2016

Hyatt Regency Hotel, Minneapolis, MN, USA

Strenghtening Literacy through Oral Language Development: Best Practices from a Chinese Immersion School

Friday, October 21, 2016 at 4:15 PM–5:15 PM CDT
Greenway Ballroom H
Session Type

Paper/Best Practice Session (1 hour)

Immersion/Partner Language(s)

Chinese, English

Context/program model

One-Way Second/Foreign Language Immersion

Level
Pre-K
Elementary (K-5)
Program Summary

Literacy development in immersion programs is strengthened when teachers guide students through intentional oral language experiences around texts, including read-aloud, work-work and text-talk. This session examines one Chinese immersion school’s successful approach to rich oral practices which grow students’ vocabulary, oral language and literacy skills.

Abstract/Description for Paper, Discussion, and Laptop Poster presentations

Students in immersion programs are expected to develop oral proficiency and literacy skills simultaneously. However, research shows that a solid foundation in oral language is necessary for literacy development. Carefully planned oral language practices, working in the zone just beyond students' current levels, pull students up the proficiency ladder. Additionally, literacy development in immersion programs is strengthened when teachers guide students through rich and intentional oral language experiences around texts, including read-aloud, word work, talk around texts, think-aloud, and more. Participants in this session will examine the effective practices of an immersion school in which the Chinese teachers and university-based trainers work together to implement these best practices. Presenters will share a framework and activities for rich and intentional oral practices that strengthen and grow students' oral proficiency and become the basis for written language skills. Participants will engage in read-aloud, word work and text talk activities with the presenters and in small groups, as presenters model how this work would take place in a K-8 classroom. Participants will take away activities and strategies ready for incorporation into their educational setting. 

Lead Presenter/organizer

Robin Harvey, New York University
Role/Title

Clinical Assistant Professor

State (in US) or Country

NY

Co-Presenters

Pearl Zao He You, Washington Yu Ying Public Charter School
Role/Title

Chinese Program Coordinator

State (in US) or Country

DC

Teng Shen, Washington Yu Ying Public Charter School
Role/Title

Fifth Grade Teacher

State (in US) or Country

US

Shuo Li, Washington Yu Ying Public Charter School
Role/Title

Fourth Grade Teacher

State (in US) or Country

DC

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