Bilingual science: teaching concepts in a home language, terms in English or French
In most African countries, secondary science is taught in English, French or Portuguese, while many learners think in another language at home. Research on mother-tongue education consistently shows that learners understand concepts better in a familiar language.
A simple bilingual approach
- Explore in the home language. Discuss what learners see in the virtual lab using the language they speak best.
- Name in the language of instruction. Introduce the formal science terms.
- Write in the language of instruction. Learners record results and conclusions in the exam language.
Using the platform's languages
The Virtual Laboratories platform is available in several languages, including English and French. VR Labs Africa is adding African languages, starting with Kiswahili and Amharic. Learners can switch language to understand a concept, then switch back to practise the terms.
Building a word wall
Keep a classroom word wall with each science term in the language of instruction and the home language. Add a small picture from the lab.
Avoiding confusion
Some everyday words have different scientific meanings, such as "work", "power" and "pressure". Discuss these explicitly in both languages.
Supporting teachers
Not every teacher speaks every learner's language. Learners who are fluent can act as language buddies during pair work.
The benefit
Learners who understand the concept first do better in written exams, because they are writing about something they understand rather than repeating words.
Create a free account and try switching languages in a lab.