(Re)defining Success in Language Learning: Positioning, Participation and Young Emergent Bilinguals at School

This book explores how emergent bilingual students navigate social and linguistic demands in an English-medium pre-kindergarten, highlighting the importance of assessment choice and recognizing translingual and multimodal abilities.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 200 pages
\n Publication date: 08 September 2020
\n Publisher: Multilingual Matters
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This captivating book delves into the lives of four remarkable emergent bilingual students who embark on their educational journey in an English-medium pre-kindergarten in the United States. It offers a profound exploration of the social and linguistic complexities they encounter as they navigate the vibrant world of school. Through vivid anecdotes and insightful observations, the author vividly illustrates how the diverse classroom social positions of these students shape their participation in interactions and, consequently, their English language learning journey throughout an entire school year.

By emphasizing both the processes and outcomes of language learning, the book sheds light on language strategies that often go unnoticed when the focus solely rests on one language or group participation. It underscores the critical importance of assessment choices in determining which learners appear to thrive, emphasizing the need to recognize the translingual and multimodal abilities of learners, even within education systems that are officially English-medium and monolingual.

The book serves as a powerful testament to the value of embracing multilingualism and recognizing the diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds of students. It encourages educators to adopt a holistic approach that fosters a rich linguistic and cultural environment, enabling students to thrive and excel in all aspects of their academic and personal lives.

In conclusion, this thought-provoking book offers a valuable perspective on the linguistic and social dynamics of emergent bilingual students in an English-medium pre-kindergarten. It provides a rich tapestry of insights and practical strategies that educators can use to support and nurture the linguistic and social development of their students. By embracing multilingualism and recognizing the translingual and multimodal abilities of learners, educators can create inclusive learning environments that empower students to reach their full potential and contribute positively to a diverse and interconnected world.

\n Weight: 322g\n
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 15 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781788928984\n \n