What is translanguaging and how to use it in the classroom?

Nowadays, more and more teachers are considering how to make lessons as clear and effective as possible. 

One of the emerging trends in education is translanguaging — a method that integrates the use of both the native language and the target language in the classroom. 

At first, this approach might appear unconventional, especially when compared to the traditional emphasis on full immersion in the target language.

However, real-world experience shows that this approach is useful for teachers because it enables pupils to digest and comprehend new material using their whole language repertoire. 

Let's explore this method and how to use it in the classroom.

Translanguaging is a pedagogical approach that encourages students to view their linguistic resources as an integrated whole rather than treating them as separate languages.

For instance, a child might read a text in English, think about its content in their native language, and take notes in the language with which they are most comfortable.

Similarly, in a classroom activity where two students are having a dialogue, if one of them struggles to understand a key word in a question and cannot respond, the other student can help by translating the word into their native language. 

In essence, translanguaging is not about literal, word-for-word translation. 

Instead, it involves the flexible use of both the native and target languages to assist learners in accurately expressing themselves and clarifying complex phrases or terms via selective translation.

This approach is particularly important for children from bilingual or multilingual families, where different languages are actively spoken both at home and in society.

Accelerating the understanding of complex topics

When teaching complex topics or school subjects in English, students may often find it challenging to comprehend the material immediately. In such cases, the translanguaging method can prove highly effective. 

For instance, I have a student who recently moved to England. 

Since English is not her first language, she initially felt uncertain, particularly in subjects like biology and history. 

To support her, I began by explaining key terms and complex ideas in her native language. 

Following this, we explored how these concepts are expressed in English. 

This method not only helped her navigate the school curriculum effectively but also allowed her to acclimatise to academic English gradually.

With regular practice, the reliance on translation and explanations in the native language naturally diminishes, as proficiency in English develops progressively.

Developing cognitive abilities

When students actively use two languages, their native language and the one they are learning, they practise shifting between them, identifying connections, and analysing information.

The more frequently they engage in these activities, the quicker they develop essential skills such as logical thinking, focus, and the ability to tackle unconventional problems.

Reducing anxiety

Learning a new language can be stressful. 

Mistakes, misunderstandings, and the fear of looking foolish… Sound familiar?

But what if there was a way to ease this stress?

That’s where translanguaging comes in!

Allowing students to use their native language boosts their confidence. 

Can’t think of a word in English? Let them say it in their own language first — then we’ll figure it out together.

Students come to see mistakes as part of the process, and learning transforms into an enjoyable journey rather than a daunting challenge.

Less fear leads to more progress. Isn’t that what we all strive for?

Inclusivity

In the classroom, there are often students with varying levels of language proficiency or those facing mental challenges, which can make learning more difficult. 

These students may find it hard to understand the material when it is entirely presented in a foreign language. 

Allowing them to discuss tasks in their native language, ask for translations of certain sentences, or take notes in their language enables them to focus on the learning process itself, rather than being distracted by language barriers or the fear of making mistakes.

Begin by explaining to your students that using their native language is not a mistake but a natural step in the learning process. 

Reassure them that it’s perfectly fine to rely on their first language if they find it difficult to express themselves in English at the moment. 

When introducing a new topic that might seem challenging, feel free to incorporate the native language to aid comprehension.

If students start mixing languages, there’s no need to worry. 

For instance, if a student uses a word from their native language because they don’t yet know its equivalent in English, use this as a teaching moment.

In conclusion, implementing translanguaging requires teachers to be well-prepared and to understand their students' needs. 

It's important to learn to view languages (both native and target) as resources that complement each other. 

By helping your students learn a language without barriers, you'll enable them to unlock their potential and achieve meaningful results.