Home Languages Belong in the Classroom

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A student learning in a new language already brings knowledge, ideas, and words from home. Asking them to leave that language at the classroom door removes a useful bridge to learning. A learner might discuss a science idea with a classmate in a shared language, sketch what happens, then practise the key terms in the school language. Teachers can welcome this process without speaking every language: use pictures and models, learn names correctly, invite students to compare words, and check understanding in more than one way. Build a word wall with clear definitions and translations checked by speakers where possible. Never make a child responsible for interpreting sensitive information. Accent is not a measure of ability, and students develop speaking, reading, and writing at different rates. Respecting home languages helps students connect prior knowledge to new ideas. Further reading: UNESCO multilingual education guidance https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/languages-matter-global-guidance-multilingual-education Prepared with AI assistance and reviewed against the linked source.

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