Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore different dimensions that could enlighten the importance of bilingual education. According to diverse sources, the importance of bilingual education is a debatable issue; because, some people consider it irrelevant. However, others consider bilingual education of utmost importance. This paper will explore the history of bilingual education in order to analyze the core purpose behind its origin. The paper will also focus on the criticism against bilingual programs in order to evaluate the controversy. Finally, the paper will enlighten diverse arguments regarding bilingual education. There are some arguments the favor bilingual education and some oppose it; because, bilingual education is a debatable concern.

Table of Contents

Introduction3

History of Bilingual Education4

Criticism against Bilingual Programs5

Arguments that Contradict Bilingual Education7

Arguments that Favor Bilingual Education8

Conclusion10

Works Cited12

Bilingual Education

Introduction

The purpose of this paper is to enlighten and explore different aspects of bilingual education. The importance of bilingual education is a debatable issue; hence, the paper will explore distinct dimension and arguments revolving the importance of bilingual education in order to shed light on the concern. According to diverse sources, immigrant adults understand English well enough to find employment, and many take part-time English classes to expand their grasp of the language. They may also feel compelled to take English classes to become Americans; since 1906, newcomers to the U.S. have had to demonstrate an ability to speak and understand English if they want to become naturalized citizens.

There were some 3.2 million U.S. primary and secondary school students during the 1994-95 school year who were designated as limited English proficient (LEP), an increase of 4.8% compared with a year earlier. Although states and local school districts do not always use the same criteria to classify LEP students, in general they are defined as students who come from a family background where English is not spoken and who have difficulties with writing, speaking or understanding English. By far, Spanish is the most common native language spoken by LEP students, due to the relatively large influx of immigrants from Latin America since the 1960s. Almost half, or 45%, of LEP students in the country are enrolled in California public schools alone. LEP students account for approximately 20% of all students in California's public schools, compared with 7% nationwide.

Bilingual education programs are most popular and most practical in schools that have large numbers of students who speak the same native language and can be grouped in a single class. Bilingual education programs typically last for three to six years, but can continue longer depending on the state program. In practice, most schools employ a combination of approaches to help LEP students learn English. Nationwide, approximately 18% of public schools provide bilingual programs, while 43% of schools provide ESL classes, either as a supplement to bilingual programs or in place of them. Altogether, bilingual and ESL-only programs reach approximately 77% of LEP students nationwide.

History of Bilingual Education

Since the U.S. is largely a nation of immigrants, the languages spoken within its borders represent nearly all the languages of ...