Lecture Notes: The Power of Bilingualism

Introduction

• Importance of understanding the connection between native and foreign languages.
• Example of reading in Italian and recognizing familiar words.

Superpower of Native Language

• Native languages provide a framework to understand foreign languages.
• 5 million students in the U.S. speak a language other than English.
• 80% of these students speak Spanish.
• Bilingualism in the world vs. U.S.:
  • 50% of the global population speaks more than one language.
  • Only 20% of people in the U.S. are bilingual.

Understanding Language: Iceberg Analogy

• Tip of the Iceberg: Represents social language (used in everyday situations, learned quickly).
  • Developed in 1-3 years.
  • Example: Children quickly learn to communicate socially.
• Below the Surface: Represents cognitive academic language proficiency (critical thinking, analysis).
  • Developed in 5-7 years.
  • Necessary for higher-level thought processes.

Personal Experience with Bilingualism

• Speaker's experience of dreaming in English, signifying language immersion.
• A bilingual brain functions like a double iceberg, where both languages are interconnected.

Importance of Cognitive Development in Native Language

• Lack of development in native language leads to illiteracy in both languages for students.
• Bilingualism is often treated as a burden, influenced by historical trauma.
  • Historical punishment for speaking native languages in schools.
• Negative impact on identity and self-worth for bilingual individuals.

Historical Trauma Discussion

• Example of a principal promoting English-only language policies.
• Importance of open conversations about language in educational settings.
• Language is tied to identity; suppression of native languages diminishes cultural value.

Personal Anecdote

• Speaker's feelings of inadequacy in an English-speaking classroom as a graduate student.
• Positive reinforcement by a professor highlighting the value of diverse backgrounds.
• The power of hope and knowledge to combat historical trauma.

The Case for Bilingual Education

• Bilingualism enhances cognitive abilities:
  • Better problem-solving skills.
  • Increased cognitive flexibility.
  • Health benefits: protects against dementia and Alzheimer's.
• Opportunity for the U.S. to cultivate a bilingual, literate, and bicultural generation by 2050.
• The importance of community involvement in promoting bilingual education.

Conclusion

• Bilingual education has the potential to revolutionize the world by fostering understanding and connection.
• Call to action for teachers, parents, and community members to support bilingual education initiatives.
• Final message: Education can change the world; bilingual education can revolutionize it.