Bilingual learners

Regardless of how the debate on bilingual education is resolved, bilingual and immigrant students throughout the world require thoughtful and empathetic attention. (Brisk, 1998: xiii)

[Learners] cannot be treated as empty vessels to be filled, but as containers rich with knowledge to be added and expanded. (Brisk, 1998: 65)

We will discuss issues relating to teaching in a bilingual classroom. The basic principles and research findings on first and second language acquisition will be presented to identify areas for further examination and discussion. We will look at how educators can provide quality education for bilingual learners, particularly focusing on the management of the classroom, resource issues and planning and assessing the curriculum. Supporting needs other than those for academic progress will be highlighted. Issues discussed may also be closely linked to ‘Cultural Issues and Schools’.