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What is the recommended strategy for developing literacy skills in English for a non-English-speaking student who is literate in her native language?

  1. Focus solely on English instruction

  2. Continue literacy instruction in the native language while scaffolding English

  3. Use bilingual texts exclusively

  4. Introduce English literacy without native language support

The correct answer is: Continue literacy instruction in the native language while scaffolding English

The recommended strategy of continuing literacy instruction in the native language while scaffolding English recognizes the important role that a student’s first language plays in their overall literacy development. When a student is already literate in their native language, leveraging those skills can significantly aid in acquiring English literacy. Supporting literacy in the native language improves cognitive processing and comprehension skills, which can then be transferred to learning English. Scaffolding English involves gradually introducing English literacy concepts while providing support, such as vocabulary development, contextual clues, and functional language use, which allows the student to build proficiency in the new language without losing their foundational literacy skills. This approach respects the cultural and linguistic background of the student while facilitating English language acquisition, making it a holistic strategy that promotes bilingualism and biliteracy.