A comprehensive study of the teaching of foreign language at the elementary school level

Abstract

There were two main objectives to the study. First, the study researched previous studies of the concept of foreign language at the elementary levels and the benefits of said concept. The study identified the pros and cons of the instruction of a secondary language. Second, the results were taken to the school board, district administrator, and other professional educators. This study was conducted through a comprehensive review and critical analysis of research and literature focused upon the objectives of the study. The teaching of foreign language at the elementary levels has come to the forefront in the past 10-15 years. There are many school districts in the United States that offer a secondary language to their elementary students. There are school districts that offer a teacher of a foreign language for every grade level. Research has shown that children that learn a secondary language test higher in English and Reading, and have an overall better grasp on their first language. The best time to learn a secondary language is at the same time the primary language is attained. There are many correlations that can be made between all languages. Certain grammar structures and concepts that are taught in all languages may be used in the dual instruction of language. While the language is being taught, the teacher will also have the opportunity to share the culture of the language. With the diverse population of the United States, the necessity to offer diversity training to the students is to the school systems’ advantage. The elementary students are still learning and molding their social character while the language and culture instruction would take place. The students would enter the upper levels of education with a broader perspective of life itself. The researcher recommended the Medford Area School District survey the parents of the elementary school students for attitudes toward implementation of foreign language at the elementary level. Other recommendations were: to investigate other area and state elementary language programs, to search for state grants, and use professionals within the district as a resource.