Heritage Language Programs - Multiple Languages
Bristol Warren Regional School District, Rhode Island
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Address: 199 Chestnut Street , Bristol, RI 02809
Grades: 9-12
Contact: Antonio A. Teixiera
Dean of Students
Email: TeixeiraAnt@bw.k12.ri.us
Telephone: 14012545980 Ext. 309
Languages/Dialects taught: Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, French
Program Description
Purposes and goals of the program : To teach the languages as electives or college requirements
Type of program : Foreign language program and extracurricular club
Mission statement : To provide the opportunity for students to learn about other cultures and languages
Program Origins :The program was founded approximately in 1967 with school district funds
Parents' expectations for the program : For students to familiarize themselves with other languages and cultures, with the hope as means of communication in the future
Staff's expectations for the program : To provide opportunities for students to broaden their experiences with other cultures and languages and fulfill a requirement for college
Students
- First-generation immigrants
- Second-generation immigrants
- Children of interethnic marriages
- Non-ethnic background
Countries of origin: Portugal, Cape Verde, some Spanish-speaking countries
Total student enrollment: 1,200
Identification of Heritage Speakers :The program does not differentiate heritage speakers from foreign language learners.
Reasons for not completing the program : Students find the learning of foreign languages very difficult and ask parents to drop them from the program.
Students' attitudes toward the language varieties they speak : They enjoy it.
Teachers/Adminstrators/Staff
Number of staff in program : 8
Languages in which staff members are proficient : in all languages level 4.
Credentials : Teacher certification in the languages taught from RI and some from both RI & MA. BA and MA.
Professional development opportunities teachers have : Through the district and state association
Instruction
Hours per week students receive instruction : 3 hrs and 45 minutes
Language Skills
English skills
- Listening
- Speaking
- Reading
- Writing
Heritage Skills
- Listening
- Speaking
- Writing
Levels of language proficiency students reach by the end of the program : 3rd to 4th levels
Culture
- History
- Festivals
- Customs
- Traditions/beliefs
- Religion
- Folktales
- Social and cultural norms
- Cultural appropriateness
- Literature
Kind of student identity the program foster : It encourages them to maintain their heritage.
Methodologies
Methodologies and instructional strategies used in the program vary.
Assessment
Weekly quizzes
- Chapter tests
- Mid-term tests
- Final exams
- Teacher’s observations
- Portfolios
Articulation
Our students continue their study at various colleges and universities to which we have connections.
- The program develops home-school connections and promotes parent involvement using open houses.
- Annual foreign language evening
- Foreign Language Honor Society reception
Opportunities students have for using the language : With the community through employment and services
The program is part of the local/state government.
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