Almost every classroom in America contains at least one student who speaks a language other than English as their primary language. Many classrooms even have multiple students who speak a language other than English as their primary language, which sometimes results in multiple languages being represented in a single classroom. Of these students, some are not only bilingual but also trilingual or multilingual. Believe it or not, these statements hold true for the state of Alabama as well. The purpose of this website is not only to draw your attention to how languages exist in our everyday environment, but also to provide concrete examples of how teachers can use what is around them in their own classrooms.
 

Is it possible for monolingual teachers to foster multiliteracy development in the classroom?
 

    Yes, it is! In his book Noa’s Ark: One Child’s Voyage into Multiliteracy, Dr. David Schwarzer (2001) expresses his feelings that this is possible and goes on to state that “monolingual classroom teachers must show interest in children’s home languages, those both read and written in the house. Teachers should inquire about this, not just…..as a part of the districts needs, but also in order to help them find someone in the school and/or home communities that will be able to foster the students’ languages within the classroom setting” (p. 78).
 

Why is it important for teachers foster multiliteracy development in the classroom?

    Many English language learners feel uncomfortable expressing their thoughts in the classroom because of the language barriers that exist. Being able to see, hear, and read materials in their own languages in the classroom would not only help them to feel more accepted, but will also improve their confidence. As teachers, we should want to provide the best opportunities for all of our students, even if it means putting forth an extra effort. The great musician Bob Marley (2002) once sang, “Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery. None but ourselves can free our minds.” I urge you to do just this! It has to start with the teachers. Fostering multiliteracy development in the classroom is not required in the Alabama state standards; however, teachers should want to provide the best opportunities for all of their students so that they can all succeed both in the classroom and in the community.