Information on multilingualism
We have developed materials which highlight the benefits of multilingualism for everyone and address common prejudices against multilingualism and second language learning. We also make available bilingual fact sheets for parents and advice on further reading.
Information brochures
RUMACCC has developed brochures which highlight the benefits of multilingualism and LOTEs (Languages other than English) for everyone and address common prejudices against multilingualism and second language learning.
Languages programs and EAL students: Understanding the benefits
This brochure is about the benefits of having students with English as an Additional Language (EAL) in our Languages programs, and how language teachers can tap into the existing linguistic expertise of these students. For more information about the research background and classroom strategies linked to this brochure, please see the Linguistic diversity and EAL in schools web page.
Download brochure (240 kb pdf)
Multilingualism and Second Language Acquisition
Rebuts some common myths about language learning and multilingualism including the “crowded curriculum”, community languages as undermining literacy in English, and “unfair competition” coming from students with a background in a community language.
- Download brochure (165kb pdf)
Diversity in Languages Programs
Describes some of the various language backgrounds that students are likely to have and explains how this diversity helps language learners reach their full potential.
- Download brochure (150kb pdf)
More Languages, More Benefits
Outlines the benefits of learning a third language, arguing that speaking two languages makes it easier to learn a third language and that, in turn, learning a third language boosts bilingual skills.
- Download brochure (150kb pdf)
Bilingual fact sheets
Brimbank Libraries have developed bilingual fact sheets for parents Speaking two languages helps your child to learn.
They are available for download in Arabic/English (405kb pdf), Chin/English (425kb pdf), Mandarin/English (805kb pdf) and Vietnamese/English (550kb pdf).
Further information and advice
You may be interested in the following articles by Dr Susanne Döpke on:
- Raising children in more than one language: Strategies in the family (320kb pdf)
- (Re-)Introducing the home language to the older child (360kb pdf)
- Motivating the child to talk (250kb pdf)
- Reading and writing (280kb pdf)
- Language development in bilingual children (320kb pdf)
We have also compiled a leaflet containing Practical advice on developing early biliteracy (680kb pdf) and a list of further readings and resources Raising children in more than one language: useful resources (670kb pdf).
International Mother Language Day video
For International Mother Language Day, CO.AS.IT., the Italian Assistance Association in Melbourne, has produced a video featuring RUMACCC Director Professor John Hajek. In this video, he talks about the maintenance of immigrant languages, the importance of these languages for one's identity and the contributions multilingualism and multiculturalism to Australian society.