What Does Research Say About Language Acquisition and Biliteracy?
What Does Research Say About Language Acquisition and Biliteracy?
As more districts across Texas and the United States consider expanding or refining dual language programs, understanding the research behind language acquisition and biliteracy is critical for designing sustainable, effective systems that truly benefit emergent bilingual students.
Why Should Leaders Prioritize Biliteracy?
The benefits of bilingualism and biliteracy extend far beyond learning two languages. Research demonstrates that bilingual students:
Develop stronger cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills
Show enhanced metalinguistic awareness (understanding how language works)
Have expanded opportunities in college and career readiness
Retain cultural identity and family connections while accessing rigorous academic content
When districts center biliteracy as a goal, they position emergent bilingual students for long-term success.
Key Research on Language Acquisition
1️⃣ Language Acquisition is a Complex, Social Process
According to Cummins (2000), language acquisition occurs through meaningful interaction in the target language. It is essential for dual language programs to provide ample opportunities for students to engage in authentic, content-rich conversations.
Implication for Leaders: Structuring DL programs to prioritize rich oral language opportunities in both languages accelerates biliteracy.
2️⃣ The Importance of Maintaining the Home Language
Thomas and Collier (2002) found that students in well-implemented dual language programs outperform their peers in English-only programs academically by middle school while maintaining strong performance in their home language.
Implication for Leaders: Home language maintenance is not a barrier but a pathway to academic achievement.
3️⃣ Cross-Linguistic Transfer Supports Biliteracy
Research by Escamilla et al. (2014) demonstrates that skills in one language can transfer to another, especially in areas like phonological awareness, comprehension strategies, and writing structures.
Implication for Leaders: Instruction should intentionally build cross-linguistic connections to foster biliteracy rather than isolating each language.
4️⃣ Bilingualism Supports Cognitive and Academic Growth
Bialystok (2011) highlighted that bilingual individuals often demonstrate greater cognitive flexibility, working memory, and problem-solving skills due to managing two linguistic systems.
Implication for Leaders: Bilingualism is an asset, not a deficit, and dual language program design should leverage this to enhance instructional rigor.
What This Means for Your Dual Language Program
If your district or campus is building or refining a dual language program, the research is clear:
✅ Biliteracy is achievable and beneficial for emergent bilinguals.
✅ Intentional program structures and instructional strategies are key to success.
✅ Bilingualism enhances cognitive and academic growth.
How Palafox Education Can Help
Dual language program audits and design support
Customized professional development for teachers and leaders
Evidence-based strategies for Spanish foundational literacy and biliteracy
Leadership training on aligning practices with research to ensure program sustainability
Let’s Design Evidence-Based DL Programs for Your District
Your emergent bilingual students deserve a program that empowers them academically and linguistically. Let us help you build or refine a dual language program rooted in best practices and research.
📞 Contact Palafox Education today to schedule a consultation for your district.
Together, we can build equitable systems that honor language, culture, and academic excellence.
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