How much English is needed in the English classroom? Should we allow learners to speak other languages? How can they draw on their full linguistic repertoire in a way that is beneficial to their English-language use and further learning? Drawing on research in second language acquisition, and the concepts of foreign language anxiety and investment, we examine how language use influences participation, comprehension, and learning opportunities. We will work with authentic classroom transcripts from different grade levels and analyze how English and other languages are used, scaffolded, and negotiated. We will also look at teachers' attitudes to and experiences with multilingual learning environments. Together, we will develop research-informed design principles for English lessons that are student-oriented, conducive to second language acquisition, and grounded in an honest and pragmatic understanding of classroom realities. |
