Does first language development help or hinder second language development?
First language development helps in second language development. First language development can play a major role in the development of a second language such as English. Older students with full or mature first language proficiency have a greater of automatic linguistic and academic bank to draw on in transferring to and advancing the development of English language proficiency. Academic abilities in one language are transferable to another based on Jim Cummins research of the “dual threshold”. Therefore a student with advanced math skills in one language will have an easier time in learning math in another. However, since most of the Almadina curriculum is delivered in English the home must play a major role in first or heritage language development and retention. Our public charter school may offer only a maximum of 100 hours international language option, as set out in the Alberta International Languages Guide.
