Strategies for Teaching Multilingual Students

Teaching multilingual students in Dubai requires innovative strategies to harness their linguistic abilities and promote academic success. Several schools in Dubai excel in promoting multilingualism, providing exemplary models for effective language education.

Little Known Facts about Learning a New Language

1. Non-Linear Language Development:
   • Bilingual children often develop language skills more slowly because they learn two languages simultaneously, rather than linearly. This means their vocabulary in each language might develop at a different pace compared to monolingual children (Meisel, 2011).
2. Brain Development:
   • Learning multiple languages enhances brain function. Studies show that bilingual individuals have increased gray matter in the brain, which is associated with better memory, cognitive flexibility, and problem-solving skills (Abutalebi & Green, 2007).
   • Bilingualism can delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease by up to five years (Bialystok et al., 2007).
3. Cultural Benefits:
   • Being multilingual enhances cultural awareness and empathy. It enables students to understand and appreciate different cultures, leading to more inclusive and diverse perspectives (Dewaele & Wei, 2012).
   • Multilingual students often have better social skills and adaptability, which are crucial for success in a globalized world.
4. Academic and Career Advantages:
   • Multilingualism is linked to improved academic performance. Bilingual students often outperform their monolingual peers in standardized tests and have higher overall academic achievements (Bialystok, 2010).
   • Fluency in multiple languages can open up greater career opportunities and higher earning potential. Employers value multilingual employees for their ability to communicate with a broader range of clients and colleagues (Grosjean, 2010).

Schools Promoting Multilingualism

Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou:

• Program: Offers a robust French curriculum with strong English and Arabic programs.
• Highlight: Emphasizes bilingual education, preparing students for international and local contexts.

Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai (SISD):

• Program: Offers a multilingual curriculum with immersion in English, French, German, and Arabic.
• Highlight: Known for its strong emphasis on language acquisition and multicultural education.

Repton School Dubai:

• Program: Provides a comprehensive British curriculum with a strong emphasis on Arabic and additional languages.
• Highlight: Maintains a decade-long record of ‘Outstanding’ KHDA ratings, emphasizing academic excellence and language proficiency.

Dubai British School Jumeirah Park:

• Program: Offers a British curriculum with strong support for Arabic and additional language options.
• Highlight: Recognized for its outstanding academic performance and inclusive multilingual programs.

Nord Anglia International School Dubai:

• Program: Combines British and IB curricula with a strong focus on language learning, including Arabic.
• Highlight: Known for its excellent language programs and holistic approach to education.

Arabic Programs

Every school in Dubai has an Arabic program, but the strength and focus vary depending on the student population and school values. Schools with a high percentage of local students or a mission to promote regional culture typically have stronger Arabic programs. For instance:

• Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou: Strong Arabic program due to a balanced emphasis on French and Arabic languages.
• Swiss International Scientific School in Dubai: Comprehensive Arabic program integrated with its multilingual curriculum.
• Repton School Dubai: Offers an extensive Arabic program in line with its commitment to fostering bilingual proficiency.
• Dubai British School Jumeirah Park: Provides robust Arabic language support alongside its British curriculum.

Effective Strategies

1. Differentiated Instruction: Tailor lessons to accommodate varying language proficiency levels. Use visual aids, hands-on activities, and multilingual resources.
2. Language Immersion Programs: Implement immersion programs where students are taught in multiple languages throughout the day.
3. Collaborative Learning: Encourage group work and peer tutoring, enabling students to learn from each other’s linguistic strengths.
4. Cultural Integration: Incorporate cultural education into language lessons to enhance understanding and appreciation of different languages.
5. Parental Involvement: Engage parents in the language learning process through workshops and resources to support learning at home.

Conclusion

Teaching multilingual students effectively involves understanding their unique needs and providing comprehensive language programs. Dubai’s schools, such as Lycée Français International Georges Pompidou, Swiss International Scientific School, Repton School Dubai, Dubai British School Jumeirah Park, and Nord Anglia International School, showcase best practices in promoting multilingualism. By leveraging innovative strategies and strong language programs, educators can ensure multilingual students achieve academic success.