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Frequently Asked Questions
Two-Way Dual-Language (TWDL) is a program of choice within Aldine ISD and is an evidence-based approach for promoting biliteracy, bilingualism, and dual-heritage for all students. The overarching goals are to develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing proficiencies in two languages, learn academic content in two languages, and to develop an appreciation for a mosaic of many heritages. Students with Spanish proficiency and students with English proficiency will learn alongside one another as they serve as language models for each other.
- Bilingual adults have increased job opportunities and the potential to earn more money.
- Bilingualism creates strong family and heritage ties with native language speaking family and community members.
- Bilingual students often outperform monolingual students on college entrance exams.
- Bilingual people are more likely to be globally-minded individuals who develop an appreciation for world heritages.
- Bilingualism and biliteracy improve brain functions like the ability to focus, multitask and perform mental tasks.
- Biliterate people have enhanced creativity in thinking “outside the box” and problem solving skills.
- Studies show bilinguals are less likely to develop brain diseases such as dementia and Alzheimers.
- Native English speakers and native Spanish speakers receive academic instruction in two languages.
- Studies show TWDL students outperform monolingual peers in two important ways:
- TWDL students (native and non-native speakers) perform as well as or better than their peers in core content areas such as English, mathematics, and science
- English learners reached English proficiency at higher rates
- Bilingualism & Biliteracy: To develop bilingualism, biliteracy, and global awareness
- Academic Achievement: To achieve high levels of academic profi ciency in both languages
- Global Awareness: To develop an appreciation for other backgrounds, fostering global citizenship
- Integration of language and heritage
- Additive practices that promote bilingualism, biliteracy, and a positive global mindset
- Separation of the two languages for instruction
- Active engagement, student-centered, and meaningful learning
- Promotion of positive interdependence among peers and between teachers and students
- Rigorous standards-aligned curriculum and high-quality instructional materials, as well as exposure to authentic language models and texts
- Valid and appropriate assessments
Age-appropriate instruction that is differentiated and scaffolded for different levels of language and academic profi ciency.
Teachers will strategically use both languages during daily instruction. The educational research on language learning supports that young children both learn and acquire second languages quite naturally. In the Aldine ISD model, the second language will be formally taught through structured language learning lessons and activities. Vocabulary and other skills will be learned through context, routines, and regular daily activities.
Research shows that basic interpersonal communication skills in a second language are acquired within 3-5 years. The academic language used in school settings is usually acquired within 5-7 years. A long-term commitment to the program is necessary to see the complete benefits of the program.
Yes, students will continue to receive instruction in the same subjects: language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. The only difference is that children in the program will be learning some subjects in English and others in Spanish.
Learning a second language provides unique benefi ts that support academic success. Studies show that TWDL students display greater academic, cognitive, and social skills. Bilingual students are also able to communicate and interact with more people from around the world, giving them additional skills and confi dence to function in a global society.
Any students who will begin kindergarten in the fall and are interested in the TWDL program are invited to apply to the program by completing a Choice Schools Lottery application on SchoolMint. For students who are accepted into the program, parents will need to complete a commitment form.
Due to the challenging nature of the program, students who are already enrolled in kindergarten or in a higher grade may be considered for the program but are reviewed on an individual basis.
All Aldine ISD students in the program may be eligible for transportation if they attend the TWDL they are zoned to.
No. Kindergarten students with Spanish proficiency and students with English proficiency will learn alongside one another as they serve as language models for each other. However, due to the challenging nature of the program, students enrolled in first grade or higher are reviewed on an individual basis.
Aldine ISD is committed to offering our students additional choices and opportunities. A lottery system is used to fill seats.
We are excited about the program and anticipate that families in Aldine ISD will take advantage of it. Students zoned to Aldine ISD schools will have access to the program first. If there is space available, students from outside the district will be able to apply, however, transportation will not be provided. Families should follow the same process mentioned above based on the child’s grade level.
Support from parents/families is key to the success of students enrolled in the TWDL program. Throughout their enrollment, parents will be asked to:
- Attend information sessions and program update meetings
- Commit to participation in the program from kindergarten through 12th grade
- Understand, support, and advocate for biliteracy
- Model an appreciation for bilingualism, biliteracy, and a global perspective
The TWDL program is a rigorous learning opportunity for students. Students are expected to attend school, come prepared and ready to learn. They are also expected to:
- Adhere to the Student Code of Conduct
- Have good attendance
- Commit to participation in the program from kindergarten through 12th grade
- Have a desire to learn more about international communities
- Develop an appreciation for bilingualism, biliteracy, and a global mindset
Students in the dual language program are able to take state assessments in the language in which they would perform best. School administrators will work with each teacher and student to determine the best choice.
