Major: Bilingual Education
Students who were raised speaking a language other than English face an astounding challenge. They must master English, study the usual load of academic subjects, and continue advancing in their first language. And sometimes they have to do it all at once.
Will such students sit lost in class, graduating with few skills? Or will they succeed in school and beyond, enriching our society with the special perspective of those who straddle two cultures? As a bilingual teacher, you can make the difference.
Bilingual education majors learn how to teach children and adults who speak a language other than English. Courses focus on teaching in English and the students' other language and understanding the special needs of bilingual students. Some majors also learn how to turn English-speaking students into bilingual speakers.
Did You Know?
- Professionals refer to students who are learning English as English language learners or non-native English speakers.
Are You Ready To...?
- Study a second language in depth
- Consider doing a double major in another academic subject, such as math
- Design lesson plans and practice teaching them in front of your classmates
- Volunteer as a camp counselor, tutor, or coach for bilingual students
- Spend time in schools observing and student teaching
It Helps to Be...
Passionate about helping bilingual students succeed without losing their own rich heritage. This is a great major for people who love to study other languages and cultures.
College Checklist
- Does the program focus on teaching speakers of particular languages, such as Spanish, Vietnamese, or Cantonese?
- How and when will you have to show you mastered a second language?
- What grade levels does the program prepare you to teach?
- Is the program approved by the state's department of education?
- Is it accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education?
Did You Know?
- Some bilingual classrooms are just for non-native English speakers. But others bring together native and non-native English speakers -- each group learns the other's language.
Course Spotlight
Your program will include a number of "field placements" -- visits to bilingual classrooms. You'll start out as an observer, drinking in all you can about how bilingual teachers reach students. For example, how do they use visual aids such as photos and maps? Do they use a buddy system so students can help one another?
These visits will prepare you to spend a semester student teaching, your chance to try out an approach of your own, with plenty of help from an experienced teacher.
