by Noah Frazier
Several years ago now, a landmark study took a bold stance concerning students studying English as a second language. Throughout the years, English schools across the country have used terms like ELLs (English Language Learners), ESL students (English as a Second Language students), LMs (Language Minorities), etc. However, according to the work of Dr. Ofelia García, we should instead be using the term emerging bilinguals when discussing students from different language backgrounds who are striving to learn English as a secondary language.
Garcia outlines multiple suggestions for incorporating the term emerging bilingual into our vocabulary:
- We should avoid using a monolinguistic mindset to set a standard and label for students.
- We should help students visualize their language skills on a continuum.
- We should shift our focus to the language skills that have been gained instead of the limitations still observed.
- We should expand our understanding of English learning to include all aspects of life beyond the classroom.
While Dr. García’s work was focused more directly on changing the status quo among classes that teach English to children, these same principles can be easily applied to adult language learners too. Many language learners will often come to English classes with the mindset that the teacher is solely responsible for their language learning experience. While the teacher is there to guide, tutor, and provide the materials and tools to succeed, students must also take charge of their own learning. They are not just another student in another classroom; they are an emerging bilingual who can utilize their newfound language skills in all aspects of their lives.
Imagine the growth in language capabilities that a student could have if they applied the principles learned in a classroom setting to their everyday lives beyond the classroom. As an emerging bilingual, they should have the confidence to practice using English in all contexts. By thinking beyond the classroom setting and practicing in other settings, they will progress in their language abilities and increase their confidence.
So, if you are a new student, think of yourself as more than that. You are an emerging bilingual ready to take skills beyond the classroom. If you’re a long time English learner, just stop and consider how much you’ve grown since you’ve started. If you are a teacher, don’t view students as just students, but see them as the people that they are. Your students are people who can use English skills at work, at the grocery store, with their friends, and in many other contexts. Learning English is not an easy process, but teachers and students can work together for an all-encompassing and supportive learning experience.
Want to become an even better emerging bilingual? Sign up for classes at Nomen Global. Our TOEFL prep courses will have you speaking and writing at a college level in just a few months. We believe in supporting our students in every aspect of their English learning experience.
Reference:
García, Ofelia. “Emergent Bilinguals and TESOL: What’s in a Name?” TESOL Quarterly 43, no. 2 (2009): 322–26. https://doi.org/10.1002/j.1545-7249.2009.tb00172.x.