Final answer:
True, transitional bilingual education supports students in acquiring English without hindering their academic progress in other subjects, by providing instruction in both their native language and English.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, a program that is designed to support children in developing academic skills in both their native language and English does indeed describe a transitional approach. This approach facilitates the learning of English while ensuring that students do not fall behind in other academic subjects.
Such bilingual education programs are crucial for children in non-English-speaking homes, aiding in their transition into American public schools. Transitional bilingual education, as exemplified by Lucy's story, helps maintain academic progress in subjects like math and science while learning English.
Research indicates that students who receive instruction in both their native language and English tend to make better progress than those taught only in English. This is supported by studies from institutions like Johns Hopkins University, which found that bilingual education across multiple subjects benefits student learning.
Therefore, a transitional approach in bilingual education is not only about language acquisition but also about academic success across disciplines.