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

Paper/Best Practice Session (1 hour)

Chinese, English

One-Way Second/Foreign Language Immersion

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.

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.