"Me siento tiste." Separation of Languages: Impact Among Recent Immigrants in a First-Grade Dual Immersion Class

• In Event: 49.053 - Critical Conversations in Dual Language Education

Abstract

This paper presents partial findings of an ethnographic research that took place in El Paso, Texas with a first grade dual immersion class where two recent immigrants attended classes. This study has the objective to reveal the affective aspects of recent Mexican immigrants’ experiences when attending classes where teachers separate first language from the new. Furthermore, this research is designed with the purpose to document and give voice to students who have not been able to express their feelings regarding their new schooling experiences. Bilingual teachers need to be aware of the impact that separation of languages has among recent immigrants. Knowing this may help administrators and teachers to be more flexible when designing the curriculum.

Authors

• Maria Del Rosario Talamantes, The University of Texas - El Paso

• Maria Teresa de la Piedra, The University of Texas - El Paso