Keller Elementary School

K-1st Dual Language Program

Dual Language is a bilingual program that teaches both non-English speakers and English speakers together to speak, read and write in two languages. Research shows that a child can transfer the knowledge and skills required in one language to the other and the development of two languages enhances a child’s educational and cognitive development. The languages used in the Keller Dual Language program are English and Spanish. For this academic year, the program will be offered in grades kindergarten through first. As children participating in the program progress to the next grade level, a Dual Language classroom is created. For more information, please contact Mr. Ventura at 480.472.6171.

Program Goals

• Achievement of high academic standards in both languages.
  

• Development of Bilingualism and Biliteracy.
  

• Development of high levels of self competence.
  

• Development of positive cross cultural attitudes.

The Keller Dual Language Learning Environment follows a 50/50 model and it is designed to focus on subject matter content such as language arts, mathematics and science, social science as well as language development. Students receive instruction in both languages with the instruction day divided into an English and Spanish block. During instruction, languages are not mixed by the teacher. Students are encouraged to use the learned language and content in a group setting or during individualized instruction with the teacher.