Delhi Unified Dual Language Immersion

What is Dual Language Immersion?

Dual language immersion programs include native English-speaking students and native speakers of a foreign language.

The goals of dual language immersion programs are to develop bilingualism/biliteracy, academic achievement, and cross-cultural competencies for all students. In dual immersion programs, students learn content through both their native language and the target language.  Simultaneous translation is never used.  By the end of 6th grade, all students in the program are proficient in English, proficient in the target language, and at or above grade-level academic benchmarks. 

Do dual language immersion students learn the same curriculum as the regular English-only programs?

Yes. The standards and curriculum of Dual Language are the same as for all students in Delhi Unified School District. The only difference is the language of instruction.

Does it matter if no one at home speaks the second language?

No. English must be continually developed and supported in the home. Read to your children daily! Continue the literacy experiences you would naturally encourage. One of the advantages of this program is that students with strong English succeed well. Children often start to apply the literacy skills, which they have learned in their first language to the second language.

How will my child understand if s/he does not speak the second language?

Teachers in the dual language immersion program are specially trained to make the information meaningful through the use of visuals, objects, gestures, and specialized instructional strategies. Students also will help each other.

Is any English used in the dual language immersion classroom?

Both languages are used every day in separate "Spanish Time" and "English Time" according to the program design. However, student expression is accepted in whichever language the student uses.

Descriptions of DLI program Empowerment: Empowering students to achieve the highest academic, social, and linguistic skills furthering their access to future educational and economic success. Hight Standards: Students are instructed according to the Common Core COntent Standards for grade level competencies in all subject areas in both English and the target Language. Brain Development: Learning a second Language stimulates the brain to develop higher level reasoning skills, which transfer to complex critical thinking in math, science, and language arts. Self Esteem: Children who are educate in two languages have stronger self esteem with more tolerance for, and more interest in other cultures