Final answer:
The practice of starting a sentence in one language and switching to another mid-sentence is called code-switching. It is a linguistic phenomenon common in bilingual communities and reflects cultural identity. This skill helps in various academic and cultural contexts and enriches literary works.
Step-by-step explanation:
The language phenomenon demonstrated when a student begins a sentence in English, then inserts a Spanish phrase, and finishes the sentence in English, is known as code-switching. This is a common occurrence in bilingual communities where both languages are used interchangeably. The use of code-switching can be a valuable skill, as it allows speakers to navigate different linguistic environments and can reflect cultural identity. Research has indicated that rather than hindering language development, receiving education in both one's native language and a second language, such as English and Spanish, can actually boost comprehension and academic performance across subjects like math, science, and computing. The practice of blending languages is not just evident in speech but also can enrich literary works, providing readers with an intimate view of cultural and linguistic individualities. For example, authors like Sandra Cisneros and Jhumpa Lahiri use their multilingual backgrounds to create more powerful narratives.