Immersion Model
In today’s world, where increased conversations about globalization permeate discussions across all industry sectors, dual language immersion education is taking center stage as the most effective and efficient program for preparing linguistically and culturally competent students who can successfully compete in a complex global economy.
In the Utah French Dual Immersion Programs, instruction is divided between two high quality, creative classrooms: one English and one French. Students enjoy the advantage of two caring, qualified teachers. The English-speaking teacher uses half of the instructional day to teach English language arts and other elements of the curriculum; the French-speaking teacher uses the other half of the day to teach French language arts and portions of the math, social studies, science, and other topics from the grade-appropriate level of the Utah State Core Curriculum. You will be amazed at how quickly your child becomes a comfortable and competent French speaker.
Why Immersion?
More than forty years of research consistently documents the power of immersion programs to help students attain high levels of second language proficiency. No other type of instruction, short of living in a second-language environment, is as successful. Young children especially thrive in this type of instructional environment. Happily, language immersion is also the least expensive way to deliver second language instruction.
Proven Benefits?
Second Language Skills
Students achieve high proficiency in the immersion language.
Improved Performance on Standardized Tests
Immersion students perform as well as or better than non-immersion students on standardized tests of English and math administered in English.
Enhanced Cognitive Skills
Immersion students typically develop greater cognitive flexibility, demonstrating increased attention control, better memory, and superior problem solving skills as well as an enhanced understanding of their primary language.
Increased Cultural Sensitivity
Immersion students are more aware of and show more positive attitudes towards other cultures and an appreciation of other people.
Long Term Benefits
Immersion students are better prepared for the global community and job markets where a second language is an asset.
Program Objectives?
-Maximize students’ second language proficiency
-Provide a rich academic environment in both first and second languages
-Develop students’’ abilities to work successfully in multiple cultural settings
-Offer a rich, culturally diverse experience for the entire school community
“We have only one opportunity to educate a child.”
What to Expect In a Dual Immersion Program
Dual Immersion offers a rich bilingual experience for young learners when their minds are developmentally best able to acquire a second language.
Instruction is divided between two high quality, creative classrooms: one English and one French.
Students enjoy the advantage of two caring, qualified teachers. The English-speaking teacher uses half of the instruction day to teach English language arts (reading, writing, and spelling) as well as other elements of the curriculum (science, social studies, math, etc.)
The French-speaking teacher uses the other half of the day to teach French language arts and portions of the math, social studies, science, art, music, P.E. and health topics from the grade—appropriate level of the Utah State Core Curriculum.
In class, the French teacher speaks only in French and communicates using a range of engaging strategies including pictures, songs, games, body language, expressions, pantomime, drama, etc. Children at this age are adept at picking up language in meaningful contexts. After a brief period at the beginning of the year, students too will speak only in French during French class.
You’ll be delighted how quickly your child becomes a comfortable and competent French speaker.
“Children just have the is capacity. Their brains are ripe to learn language.”
Who Can Participate?
The Dual Immersion program seeks to enroll students of varying backgrounds and all abilities. Applications are open to all students entering first grade. However, it may not be a wise choice for children experiencing significant communication delays in their primary language.
Parents Responsibilities?
-Commit to long-term participation in the immersion program
-Develop an understanding of immersion education
-Read with your child )in English) 20-30 min. daily
-Encourage the use of French outside of school
-Provide community support and, when possible, volunteer
-Enjoy the challenges; celebrate the results
How to Enroll My Child
For information about enrolling your child in one of Utah’s French/English Dual Immersion programs, please contact one of the schools or school districts listed on Participants section of this website.
