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Using Translanguaging to Grow Multilingual Readers and Writers

Galen Powell

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Published in Rooted In Strength: Using Translanguaging To Grow Multilingual Readers And Writer: Using Translanguaging To Grow Multilingual Readers And Writers

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Rooted in Strength: Using Translanguaging to Grow Multilingual Readers and Writer: Using Translanguaging to Grow Multilingual Readers and Writers

by Cecilia Espinosa

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	49303 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	225 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

What is Translanguaging?

Translanguaging is a natural language phenomenon that occurs when speakers use multiple languages to communicate. It is not simply a matter of translating words from one language to another, but rather a dynamic process that involves the use of multiple languages to express meaning.

Translanguaging is a powerful tool that can help multilingual learners develop their literacy skills. When learners are allowed to use their full linguistic repertoire, they are able to access a wider range of knowledge and experiences. This can lead to deeper understanding and increased engagement in learning.

Benefits of Translanguaging

There are many benefits to using translanguaging in the classroom, including:

Increased literacy skills: Translanguaging can help multilingual learners develop their literacy skills in all of their languages. By using their full linguistic repertoire, learners can access a wider range of knowledge and experiences, which can lead to deeper understanding and increased engagement in learning.
Improved communication skills: Translanguaging can help multilingual learners improve their communication skills. By being able to use multiple languages, learners can communicate more effectively with a wider range of people.
Increased cultural awareness: Translanguaging can help multilingual learners develop a deeper understanding of their own culture and the cultures of others. By being able to use multiple languages, learners can access a wider range of cultural experiences and perspectives.
Increased self-esteem: Translanguaging can help multilingual learners develop a positive self-esteem. By being able to use their full linguistic repertoire, learners can feel more confident in their abilities and more comfortable in their own skin.

How to Implement Translanguaging in the Classroom

There are many ways to implement translanguaging in the classroom. Here are a few tips:

Allow learners to use their native languages: The most important thing is to allow learners to use their native languages in the classroom. This can be done through a variety of activities, such as:
- Reading aloud to learners in their native language
- Having learners write in their native language
- Using native language materials in the classroom
Encourage learners to use multiple languages: Once learners are comfortable using their native languages in the classroom, you can begin to encourage them to use multiple languages. This can be done through a variety of activities, such as:
- Having learners translate texts from one language to another
- Having learners create multilingual presentations
- Having learners participate in multilingual discussions
Create a supportive learning environment: It is important to create a supportive learning environment where learners feel comfortable using their full linguistic repertoire. This means:
- Valuing all languages
- Providing opportunities for learners to use their native languages
- Encouraging learners to use multiple languages

Translanguaging is a powerful tool that can help multilingual learners develop their literacy skills. By allowing learners to use their full linguistic repertoire, we can help them access a wider range of knowledge and experiences, which can lead to deeper understanding and increased engagement in learning.

If you are interested in learning more about translanguaging, there are a number of resources available online. The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) has a number of resources on its website, including a position statement on translanguaging. The Center for Applied Linguistics (CAL) also has a number of resources on its website, including a toolkit for implementing translanguaging in the classroom.

Rooted in Strength: Using Translanguaging to Grow Multilingual Readers and Writer: Using Translanguaging to Grow Multilingual Readers and Writers

by Cecilia Espinosa

5 out of 5