Are language immersion programs worth it?

Many people believe the best way for a student to excel in a foreign language is an immersion program. In essence, research shows that a full immersion program not only teaches students a foreign language, it strengthens their understanding of their native language as well.

What is a summer immersion program?

Summer Immersion is a full-day, rigorous, noncredit program for rising sophomores, juniors and seniors (ages 14-18). Participants enroll in 2-week sessions that integrate lectures with guest speakers, experiential and applied activities.

Can you learn a language over the summer?

In a full immersion summer language program, much of your learning occurs outside the classroom as you navigate everyday life in your host country. This means that if you are proactive in immersing yourself in the local culture, you can make big strides in your language acquisition over the summer.

What language immersion options are available?

Types that are characterized by age:

• Early immersion: Students start learning their second language at the age of 5 or 6.
• Middle immersion: Students start learning their second language at the age of around 9 or 10.
• Late immersion: Students start learning their second language after the age of 11.

What are the characteristics of immersion programs?

Additive bilingualism with sustained and enriched instruction through the minority language and the majority language is promoted

What is dual language Spanish immersion?

In dual language immersion (DLI), native Spanish speakers and native English speakers maintain and develop their first language while acquiring native-like communication and literacy skills in a second language. Academic content is taught and assessed in two languages over an extended period of time.

What is language immersion education?

Additive bilingualism with sustained and enriched instruction through the second language and the first language is promoted

What is a language camp?

Camp OFLA is a residential elementary foreign language camp for students in grades 3-8. It was created by the Ohio Foreign Language Association in 2005 in celebration of the American Council of Teachers of Foreign Languages Year of Languages. In February 2020, Camp OFLA received a federal grant from STARTALK to fund our camp with FREE camperships!