What is the Spanish Immersion Program?
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It is a rigorous program where standards- based academic content and literacy are taught in both Spanish and English. This program adheres to high expectations and state standards.
Program Goals - To develop:
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- Bilingual, biliterate and bicultural students
- High levels of academic achievement
- An appreciation and understanding of diverse cultures.
Instructional Design
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- One Way-50/50 model – students will receive 50% of instruction in Spanish and 50% in English
- English-dominant and Spanish- dominant students are integrated for instruction throughout the day
Skills are taught in one language and reinforced in the other through thematic teaching and cross-linguistic development.
Parent/Guardian Commitment
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Maintain child in program through 5th grade:
- Support child at home in their native language to continue to develop language and academic skills
- Participate in Spanish Immersion parent meetings and functions
Research Findings
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Students who acquire advanced levels of proficiency in second languages often experience certain cognitive and linguistic advantages when compared to monolingual students.
(Cummins,1981; Lambert, Genesee, Halolbow & Chatrand 1993)Students who are exposed to a second language at an early age have a better chance to learn and be more successful in the acquisition of a second language.
(Cognitive Neuroscientist Laura Ann Petitto, 2004)There is increasing evidence that phonological awareness transfers across languages.
(e.g., Durgunoglu & Verhoeven, 1998; Geva, 2000)
What advantages does the Spanish Immersion Program offer students?
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Cognitive Benefits
- Intellectual growth
- Creativity in thinking and listening
- Higher order reasoning skills
Socio-Cultural Benefits
- Effective communication in both English and Spanish
- Literacy in both languages
- Appreciation for cultural diversity
- Pride in own culture
- Skills necessary in a global economy
- College and career readiness
Schools
Contacts
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Melissa Morgado
Supervisor of World Languages
(813) 272-4960Stephanie Kraft
Project Manager, Bridge to Biliteracy Spanish Immersion Program
(813) 272-4960
Community Partners
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- Hola Foundation
- Latino Coalition of Tampa Bay
- Mayor’s Hispanic Advisory Council