Bilingualism provides cognitive advantages such as improved executive function and better ability to monitor surroundings. Recent studies also show bilingualism can help prevent or delay Alzheimer's disease in older adults. The Spanish educational system is trying to implement bilingual programs in schools using three models: two official state languages, one official language and a foreign language, or two official languages and a foreign language. The objectives are to improve English skills, enhance learning of other subjects, and prepare students for future education and careers, but disadvantages can include issues with teacher language skills, resources, student language levels, and focus on language over course content.

1. BILINGUALISM: CONCEPT AND
APPLICATION IN THE SPANISH
EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
ROBERTO C. NOTARIO. EOI NI2. 11TH MARCH 2013

2. • Bilingualism definition: able to speak
two languages, written or expressed in
two languages.
• Is this definition complete? What about
the culture or thinking in this another
language?

3. • Last researches show that to be
bilingual improves our brain (the
executive function), and you can
monitor your surroundings in a better
way (Albert Costa, U. Pompeu Fabra).

4. • Another new study shows evidence of that
cognitive advantage among older, bilingual
adults, and moreover in senior people.
• And it also shows that it prevents people
suffering from Alzheimer from having strong
damage. (Dr. Gold, Voice of America, “Lifelong bilingualism gives
seniors mental edge”)

5. • Our educational system is trying to
implement bilingual programs in the school.
• Thus, we have three different models:
• 2 official languages of the state.
• 1 official language and a foreign language.
• 2 official languages and a foreign language.

6. • Objectives and advantages:
• improve English language competence;
• give added value to the learning of content;
• prepare for future studies and/or working life;
• enhance school profile (or
Region/Municipalities);
• increase learner motivation and build self-
confidence towards learning English.

7. • Disadvantages:
• Teachers’ Language Level
• Problems with resources
• L2 level of the students
• Focus on language and not in contents
• Lack of native language skills