CNN.com - Spanish classes�for native speakers - Apr 21, 2005: "The American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages estimates about 141,000 middle- and high-schoolers in 2000 were enrolled in Spanish classes designed specifically for native Spanish speakers. The group is conducting another survey this year and expects a significant increase.
At the high school level, the courses often resemble traditional language arts classes with an emphasis on grammar, vocabulary and writing instruction in Spanish. At the elementary level, the classes often include English and Spanish speakers learning one portion of the curriculum in one language and the rest in the other language, said Marty Abbott, the council's education director.
When done well, she said, the classes can help Spanish speakers -- a group with traditionally lower-than-average test scores and above-average dropout rates -- connect with their schools. She said there has been a rise in native Spanish speakers taking Advanced Placement Spanish courses -- and succeeding."
