2012-2013 MSD Dual Immersion program

http://www.schools.utah.gov/curr/dualimmersion/

Dual Immersion in Utah is a program in which students spend half the day in English with one teacher and half the day with another teacher in a second language, or L2.

This 50/50 instructional model offers students the opportunity to become skilled in the L2 and gain increased cultural competency. Most subjects are taught in both languages, but each language is used exclusively during its designated instructional block. It’s not a new idea – the first Dual Immersion program in Canada began in 1963 – although it is relatively new to Utah.

Utah’s Dual Immersion program 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 in the Second Language (Chinese, French or Spanish).


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.