Courtesy of the New York Times

In both cases, Transitional and Dual, an instructor who speaks both Spanish and English is needed. This instructor teaches the class lessons according to the subject he/she specializes in. In Transitional Bilingual Education, the class would be taught predominantly in Spanish, using the same curriculum as the rest of the subject department. Really, the only difference is that the lessons are taught in Spanish. This is because educators believe that it is easier for students to learn English later on if they are fluent and literate in Spanish their native language, and if they know the content of the lessons well.

In Dual Language instruction, the instructor divides the class time into two parts, Spanish and English. The material is taught according to the teacher’s preference. Over time, teaching in Spanish is minimized so as to transition students into English-only instruction without too much of a jump. Eventually, the class is taught entirely in English when the teacher deems the students are proficient and literate in the language.

Back to Table of Contents