Translanguaging
The benefits of translanguaging are highlighted in Baker (2011), Creese and Blackledge (2010), and Swain and Lapkin (2013). Permitting students to use their L1 to process information (namely cognitively demanding tasks) and express their learning in their L2 has the potential to promote a deeper understanding of the content. “The L1 is an important cognitive tool which helps learners organize their thoughts, focus their attention, and scaffold their understanding and production of the L2. For this reason students should be permitted to use their L1 for the purpose of working through complex ideas.” (Swain, 2012).
Translanguaging has some distinct benefits as described by Baker (2011):
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Here are some examples of ways translanguaging can be purposefully used to support students in the French immersion program:
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