Multilingualism
Why Multilingualism Matters
At Andersen Elementary, we celebrate the many languages spoken by our students and families. Multilingualism strengthens our school community by encouraging connection, communication, and understanding across cultures. Language is not only a tool for learning—it helps students express themselves, collaborate, and develop international-mindedness, a core value of the IB program.
As part of their specials rotation, all students are exposed to Spanish language and culture, providing meaningful opportunities to experience an additional language. The Spanish class utilizes the ¡Listos! print and digital curriculum, with a focus on both language development and the cultures of 20 Spanish-speaking countries around the world.
Students also have access to Rockalingua.com at both school and home, allowing them to practice language through songs, games, and interactive activities in engaging ways.
Through this exposure, students build cultural awareness, explore diverse perspectives, and strengthen their ability to communicate with empathy and clarity. Learning another language helps students appreciate cultural differences, see the world from new perspectives, and grow as reflective and confident communicators.
BENEFITS OF MULTILINGUALISM
Research shows that engaging with more than one language can influence how students manage attention and support cognitive processes used across learning areas.
According to a review of neuroscience research:
“Ongoing experience in managing attention to two languages reorganizes specific brain networks, creating a more effective basis for cognitive control and supporting sustained thinking and problem-solving.” — Adapted from Bialystok, Craik & Luk (2012) (Source: National Library of Medicine)
ALIGNMENT WITH ARIZONA AND DISTRICT PROGRAMS
Our approach to multilingualism complements the Chandler Unified School District goals for World Language Programs in addition to the Chandler Unified School District English Language Development (ELD) program. While ELD instruction focuses on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in English, students are also encouraged to value and draw upon their home languages as assets in learning.
This approach:
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recognizes students’ primary languages and encourages families to indicate them on enrollment forms and home language surveys
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supports students in connecting their linguistic experiences to classroom learning
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reinforces confidence, cultural awareness, and communication skills that support participation in local and global contexts
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aligns with Arizona ELD standards and CUSD program beliefs that students’ linguistic and cultural backgrounds strengthen learning
Our Approach
At Andersen Elementary:
- All students are encouraged to value the languages they speak at home and in the community.
- Spanish language exposure begins in the early grades and continues throughout elementary school.
- Students are supported in linking prior linguistic knowledge to new learning experiences.
- Students may share their thinking in both English and their home language—for example, presenting a project in English for school and in their home language for family members.
Every child is a language learner, and every teacher is a language teacher.