Which of the following statements best describes the stance most researchers of sheltered English immersion (SEI) have taken toward the use of students' first language in the SEI classroom?
  1. Students' English language development can be severely hindered by any use of the first language.
  2. Students need to receive most content-area instruction in the first language to support the ongoing development of academic concepts.
  3. Students should be encouraged to develop their first-language skills outside of school but to use only English in school.
  4. Students can benefit from some use of their first language to clarify communication and to enhance motivation and self-esteem.
Explanation
Correct Response: D. Most researchers of sheltered English immersion (SEI) acknowledge that a student's first language provides an important foundation for language and content learning in the second language. While English is the language of instruction in content-area classes that follow an SEI model, SEI teachers may use students' first language if needed to clarify communication. Research also strongly suggests that valuing students' first language builds confidence and motivation within students. A is incorrect as the statement is not supported by research. On the contrary, research shows that a strong foundation in the first language benefits students in learning additional languages. B is incorrect because English is the primary language of instruction in an SEI model. Conversely, C is incorrect because SEI does not prohibit use of students' first language in the classroom.
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