Dual Language Geography

Dual language means teaching a percentage of the same material in your target language. This can of course be your home language. I am using Spanish as an example (and in a freebie at the bottom of this post!) because that is my second language, and what I am most familiar with speaking and using.

We can start in a target language the same way we start in our native language:

• Colors

• Animals

• High frequency words and phrases like foods and commands

If you’re seeking a slightly more advanced lesson because you have those basics covered, Geography is an easy place to start. Continents, oceans, country names, etc. are easily accessible and concrete concepts that are often already known by parent and/or child. 

I’ve had several parents message me on Instagram about English not being their first language, and their concerns for the impact of that on their homeschool. Having English as your second language will carry a serious learning curve for things like Phonics in English, but that’s often a matter of perseverance and patience more than ability.

There’s also significant advantages when it comes to having knowledge of a different language than English. You have a knowledge base of vocabulary for several subjects already built in. 

Use this to your advantage, and teach your child the words you know well in subjects that are high frequency and universal - like geography.

Starting with Geography Topics: 

• Topics: Maps, Exploration 

• Target vocabulary: latitude, longitude, equator, prime meridian, seven continents

Continuing with Geography: 

• Topics: Landforms, bodies of water, Identifying countries within the continents Key

• Target Vocabulary: Bodies of Water & Landforms

Deeper into Geography Studies Topics:

• Topics:  Individual Nation studies, Culture Studies, Recipes 

• Target Vocabulary: country names, cultural keywords, foods of the world

You can read the Instagram post about this topic, featuring products from The World Around me Bundle as resources for dual language geography. If you enter your email below, you will receive my Spanish Language cheat sheet to the maps and continents. Of course I suggest using it with The World Around Me Mega Bundle, but if you don’t want to purchase it - use this resource with the free three part cards offered at the bottom of the bundle website!