Dual Language Immersion
Morgan Hill Unified is proud to offer our students the opportunity to develop bilingual skills in English and Spanish. Dual Language Immersion (sometimes known as Two Way Bilingual Immersion) is a program using an instructional approach that integrates native English speakers and native speakers of other languages and provides instruction to both groups of students in both languages. All students are eligible to participate in the program.
Program Goals
The Dual Language Immersion program is designed to meet the following goals:
• Bilingualism and Biliteracy: Students develop a high level of oral and written proficiency in both Spanish and English.
• Academic Excellence: Students achieve academic excellence in all subject areas, meeting or exceeding district and California state standards.
• Multicultural Understanding: Students develop positive attitudes toward other languages and cultures and demonstrate their ability to appreciate the traditions and values of various cultures in our society and around the world.
Benefits of Dual Language Immersion
-
Economic, social and educational benefits
-
Stronger English Language Outcomes
-
Brain and Cognitive Benefits
-
Equalize Access and Participation
-
Greater Family Engagement and Connection
Program Models
Students begin the program in TK or Kinder taught by highly qualified teachers trained in dual language immersion methodology. These programs are research based and proven to work effectively to develop bilingual skills and academic learning.
The two most frequently implemented programs in the United States are the 90:10 and 50:50 models.
90:10 Program
|
Grade Level |
% of time taught in Spanish |
% of time taught in English |
|---|---|---|
|
Transitional Kinder and |
90 |
10 |
|
1 |
80 |
20 |
|
2 |
70 |
30 |
|
3 |
60 |
40 |
|
4-8 |
50 |
50 |
50:50 Program
|
Grade Level |
% of time taught in Spanish |
% of time taught in English |
|---|---|---|
|
Transitional Kinder and Kindergarten |
50 |
50 |
|
1-5 |
50 |
50 |
Families who enroll their children in Dual Language Immersion programs make a multiyear commitment to the program to ensure that students attain high levels of academic proficiency and literacy in two languages by the time they are promoted to middle school. The program continues on to high school at Live Oak High School. Upon graduation, students demonstrating proficiency in two languages earn a Seal of Biliteracy.
Currently, we offer a 90:10 program at San Martin Gwinn serving grades K-8. The district is considering expanding our dual language program offerings to P.A. Walsh STEAM Academy with a 50:50 model. For more information on San Martin Gwinn's dual language program, visit their Dual Language Immersion and Multicultural Education Program webpage.
