Program Models for Introducing World Languages

Program Models for Introducing World Languages
in Nebraska Elementary Schools

The Essential Education document recommends introductory experiences in world
languages. All elementary students should have access to some type of
world language program. There are many types of models schools can use
depending on the needs and goals of the school and community. The models
range from intensive immersion programs to using international themes
connected to or integrated with other content such as reading, social
studies, art, and music. The use of school, community, state and international
resources is encouraged.

Recommended
Staff

Description

Current
Models

Current
School Staff

World
Language and Culture Activities – Students are introduced to one or more
world languages and cultures through a variety of scenarios. These scenarios
could last a week, a month or could be the focus for the year.

For example:

• World
  language and culture activities are integrated throughout the curriculum
  
  • Focus on themes already used by elementary
    teachers and incorporate languages and cultures from countries that
    connect to current theme
  • Develop international themes connected
    to or integrated with other content areas
  • Sponsor a World Language Festival
  • Heritage Month Celebration
  • Celebrate International or World Education
    Month
  • Supplement activities with video-based
    world language instruction
• Secondary and elementary teachers collaborate
  to have high school students plan and provide a world language and culture
  lesson or unit for elementary students

Variety
of models across Nebraska

Full-Time
Teacher,

Regular
Classroom Teacher & Para,

Distance
Learning Teacher,

or
Current School Staff

World
Language Exploration – One or more world languages are introduced which
emphasize functional language and cultural awareness. Students study the
language once or twice a week with time ranging from 20 to 45 minutes.
There may be limited fluency.

OPS
Crestridge Elementary School of International/Global Studies

*IN-VISION
Model Curriculum

Full
Time Teachers

World
Language Immersion – Teachers and students use the second language throughout
the school day in all content areas. There are variations under the umbrella
of immersion programs such as partial immersion or dual immersion. In
dual immersion all content is taught in English one day and the world
language the next day. Good fluency is expected after four or more years.

Omaha
Public Schools

(selected
schools)

Sequential
World Language – Students study the second language within the parameters
of themes and functional topics for about 30 minutes or more per day for
four or more years. Good theme-related fluency is expected.

Westside
Community Schools

(selected
schools)

Resources:

• Nebraska Department of World Language Education
  
• Nebraska World Languages PreK-16 Initiative
  
• Thematic Units
  
• *IN-VISION Project Elementary Model Curriculum
  (A Technology Challenge Grant developed Spanish curriculum, which can
  be adapted for other languages.
  Contact ESU#5 at 402-223-5277 for more information.)
  Curriculum resources include:

• • Spanish Curriculum and Support Materials
    
  • Teaching Strategies for Language Integration
    into Core Curriculum
  • Teaching Language Through Literature
    
  • Lesson and Practice Activities