1. BILINGUALISM: CONCEPT AND
APPLICATION IN THE SPANISH
EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
ROBERTO C. NOTARIO. EOI NI2. 11TH MARCH 2013

2. • Bilingualism definition: able to speak
two languages, written or expressed in
two languages.
• Is this definition complete? What about
the culture or thinking in this another
language?

3. • Last researches show that to be
bilingual improves our brain (the
executive function), and you can
monitor your surroundings in a better
way (Albert Costa, U. Pompeu Fabra).

4. • Another new study shows evidence of that
cognitive advantage among older, bilingual
adults, and moreover in senior people.
• And it also shows that it prevents people
suffering from Alzheimer from having strong
damage. (Dr. Gold, Voice of America, “Lifelong bilingualism gives
seniors mental edge”)

5. • Our educational system is trying to
implement bilingual programs in the school.
• Thus, we have three different models:
• 2 official languages of the state.
• 1 official language and a foreign language.
• 2 official languages and a foreign language.

6. • Objectives and advantages:
• improve English language competence;
• give added value to the learning of content;
• prepare for future studies and/or working life;
• enhance school profile (or
Region/Municipalities);
• increase learner motivation and build self-
confidence towards learning English.

7. • Disadvantages:
• Teachers’ Language Level
• Problems with resources
• L2 level of the students
• Focus on language and not in contents
• Lack of native language skills