What is bilingual education ?
Bilingual education is the structured and conscious use of two languages during a student’s learning journey. The goal of this approach is for learners to acquire their second language through their academic studies.
At CIS, our bilingual programs are designed to give students the opportunity to learn a preferred language additional to English so that they can be integrated as Global Citizens in a diverse society. Bilingual education not only helps students master and apply both languages, but it also broadens their cultural awareness. Our goal is for students to be deeply involved in intercultural communication, with the second language serving as both a medium and a means of teaching and learning, rather than just a subject of study.
How does the bilingual program work ?
Upon registration, your child will be able to participate in a French or Mandarin bilingual program at no additional cost.
Following the Alberta programs of study, students in bilingual programs beginning in Senior Kindergarten or Grade 1 and continuing through Grade 8 can have approximately 60/40 time allocated between English and the target language. This allows the child to increase their level of competence enough to use both languages effortlessly in everyday situations.
Students entering senior kindergarten or grade 1 can enroll in their preferred bilingual program. Prior experience with the target language is not necessary, and parents do not need to be fluent in it. For a more accelerated learning experience, students who are already familiar with French or Mandarin may join the program at a later grade level if they fulfill the evaluation criteria.
According to Gaia Vince from BBC.com, speaking multiple languages is the natural way of life for 75% of the world’s population. For many of our students, switching from one language to another comes quite naturally. We provide each student with the opportunity to learn and experience multiple cultures: it’s their pathway to global citizenship.
What are the benefits of a bilingual program?
“Bilingual education develops crucial cognitive skills such as problem-solving, reasoning, critical thinking, and creativity.”
Bilingual Program Coordinator Mr. Kimm Renaud
“Apart from the fact that being bilingual broadens a child’s horizons at a young age by providing access to various aspects of other cultures, being more open to history, and ultimately exploring new identities by removing the language barrier for limitless experiences. The quick switch between languages that a child will achieve fluently by the end of their bilingual program at CIS will instill confidence and pride in their communication skills, empowering the child to be more expressive, diverse, and ready to participate in a fast-paced world.”
What is the outcome of this bilingual program ?
Here’s what parent Ms. Christina Liu has to say about her son’s bilingual learning journey.
“Signing Richard up for the French Bilingual Program at CIS is one of the best decisions that I have ever made when it comes to Richard’s education. When the French teachers offered Richard this opportunity to join the French Bilingual Program, I was thrilled! Richard’s improvement is obvious. He has evolved from simply liking the sound of French, to learning to appreciate the beauty of the language (learning with his favorite teachers keeps him inspired and interested at all times). Recently Richard passed his first French language level test DELF A1 with a high score. I am very proud of him.”
With a team that combines years of experience in language teaching and endless love for languages,we believe in the power of bilingual thinking to expand students’ horizons. Allow our French or Mandarin bilingual program to help your child reach new heights.
Interested in a Mandarin or French bilingual education for your child? – Contact our admissions team at admissions@cisp.edu.kh for more information.