Language status in two-way bilingual immersion: The dynamics between English and Spanish in peer interaction

Research has shown that two-way bilingual immersion (TWBI) programs provide positive outcomes for all students to become bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural. Yet, studies have shown that there can be challenges in student-to-student interaction in TWBI programs. This study reports on peer interaction dynamics during content instruction in two 90/10 programs through lesson observations, teacher interviews, and reflections. Teachers in Grades 4-6 provided their perspectives concerning the status of English and Spanish in their classrooms. Teachers also shared instructional strategies to support students' progress in Spanish. This study presents important instructional implications for sociocultural and sociolinguistic goals pertaining to English and Spanish speakers in TWBI programs.