Garcia and Rodriguez- Is being bilingual an advantage?

Is being bilingual an advantage?

Growing up in a middle upper class family who only speaks english, some may believe we have the advantage. Students move through each year learning new ideas and a new language. As my Spanish teacher once said, “the power to speak one language does not compare to the power to speak more than just one as you now have the influence and ability to speak to more than just one type of person." Students are taught that more than one language is good as long as english is your first language. Correct? In Richard Rodriguez’s short story, “Aria”, he tells the story of his own experiences of being bilingual.

Rodriguez had a typical bilingual household as his parents spoke spanish and he attended a school where the dominant (and only) language is English. He explains that when he was younger he was categorized as a student who needed extra help. Yet, no teacher ever encouraged his ability to speak both languages. Instead they convinced him he was behind because his language was not a public language.

"'Is it possible for you and your husband to encourage your children to practice their English when they are home?' Of course my parents complied. What would they not do for their children's well being?"

-Rodriguez

As any parent would want a better life for their children, they would be willing to do anything. Even if it would mean leaving their culture behind to ensure their children can succeed. Yet succeed at a level that may not benefit the child in the long run. Instead they force the children to adapt a new culture and language over night while also forcing the parents to put their culture and traditions second. 

On another note, there are proven benefits in connection of being bilingual especially in the classroom. In Ofelia Garcia, "Theorizing Translanguaging For Educators", she explains four main points on how teaching a bilingual student differs from a monolingual student. 

"For bilingual students to develop the language practices used in academic contexts they must practice those uses, regardless of whether they can use the form required for school" 

- Garcia 

Essentially, using both languages in the classroom and the home allows for a stronger development of both languages. Yet, one language should never be forgotten. Both languages should valued as they benefit the student as they help gather a strong understanding. In Rodriguez's case, he was forced to lose connection with his first language. whereas, in the case of Garcia, both languages are valued.