The programs major objective is for LEP students to gain English-language skills. Thus, bilingual education is an instructional method that uses both the student s native language and English in varying degrees. Students typically stay in these programs for six years before they transfer to mainstream classes. This program also yields among the highest and progressive student academic performance over time. Transitional or Early-exit Bilingual Education , the most commonly used model in the U.S., emphasizes English language development with academic learning.
Instruction is in the student s native language to teach both English and academic subjects.
Students typically stay in these programs one-three years. Dual Immersion Bilingual Education teaches LEP and English proficient students each other s languages in order to develop full bilingualism for both sets of students. With ESL, students are taught the English language with little or no use of their native language and is usually taught during specific school periods. Structured Immersion teaches students simple English with little support from or use of the student s native language. Research findings, however, conclude that featuring English language instruction slows down academic learning and achievement in the long run.