Translanguaging: Promoting Talk and Interaction for Emergent Bilinguals

• In Event: Sheraton Roundtable Session 13
  In Roundtable Session: Analyzing Translanguaging in Different Contexts

Abstract

In this study, translanguaging referred to the languaging practices of bilinguals as they adeptly and purposefully constructed meaning through the engagement of their full linguistic repertoires during content discussions (García, 2009). Translanguaging was used to deconstruct normative monoglossic language forms and instead contribute a heteroglossic understanding of bilinguals’ language use encompassing interdependent language features. The findings from this study indicated that translanguaging was an integral part of the dual language literacy context in spite of strict language separation policies. Through the use of nuanced dynamic translanguaging during naturally occurring student talk, students enacted bilingualism and biculturalism in sophisticated ways as a means to negotiate literacy content as well as language features and forms using their full linguistic repertoire.

Authors

• Kristen L. Pratt, Washington State University

• Gisela Ernst-Slavit, Washington State University - Vancouver