Which model of bilingual education focuses on transitioning students to English?

Transitional bilingual education is designed specifically to aid students in transitioning from their native language to English. This model typically involves initial instruction in the student’s first language while gradually increasing the amount of instruction in English over time. The ultimate goal is to achieve proficiency in English so that students can succeed in an English-speaking educational environment. This model prioritizes the rapid acquisition of English, thus helping students integrate into the mainstream educational system more effectively.

In contrast, other models like dual-language immersion focus on bilingualism and biliteracy, maintenance bilingual programs aim to sustain and develop proficiency in both languages long-term, and bilingual special education addresses the needs of students with special needs in a bilingual context. Each of these alternatives serves different objectives, but transitional bilingual education is distinct in its focus on facilitating a transition primarily to English.