Supporting L1

safe, inclusive environment

confidence

positive attitude to L2

reaffirmation of cultural identity and values

sense of cultural stability and continuity

prior experiences add new perspectives to the classroom

Mental flexibility

Developing problem solving skills

understand, respect and appreciate multiple views

allowed sufficient time to complete task

opportunity to demonstrate understanding of knowledge without pressure of L2 translation

expose native English speakers to other languages

small group/paired work

same language partners

allow students to discuss together in L1

encourage students to complete tasks in L1

reading and writing

dual language assignments ex. picture books

develop tasks that make use of L1

visual organizers, charts, pictures

ex. charting numbers in different languages

build on students existing experiences to further their learning

Communication with parents

keep parents updated about student progress

work samples, portfolios, presentation

encourage at home use of L1

reading, talking, playing with children in L1

childrenslibrary.org for access to multilingual texts