LITERATURE REVIEW-BILINGUALISM - Essay Example

econd language naturally or through instituted learning models; the individual is already a bilingual, or a bilingual is in the process of losing his/her bilingual ability due to infrequency of use of the first language. According to Hermeneus (2001, web) children are usually considered better bilinguals than adults because of their impressive speed and efficiency in acquiring language, observation of other young learners and absorption of the language. Bilingualism generally refers to the ability to "understand and communicate in a second language" and " use it correctly".

Bilingual education is usually aimed at making students proficient in the second language as well as in English in multi-ethnic populated countries like the United States, Canada, UK, and Australia where English is the dominant language of instruction and learning (Blaum, 2009, web). Despite such bilingual learning settings, experts such as Ramirez and Shapiro (2006, p.356) are of the view that bilinguals find it hard to compete against monolinguals in academic environment. Despite dramatic increase in bilingual in schools in the United States and the UK, these individuals are failing to achieve the grade level required for general education standards.

When compared with monolinguals (usually English speakers) bilinguals are slow in growth rate for expected levels of performance. According to Neuman and Dickinson (2003, p.165) bilinguals often face problems of comprehension, skill development and learning among monolinguals especially in English settings. This is the reason why in some countries bilingual education is encouraged. Neuman and Dickinson (2003, p. 165) consider bilingual education highly important for skill development of bilinguals.

The consideration for bilinguals stems from the fact that bilinguals are different in their perception, comprehension and adaptation of academic learning situations. Neuman and Dickinson (2003, p.165) have indicated that children in early education