Two-Way Bilingual Immersion Program (TWBIP)

The TWBIP is both an additive bilingual program and a foreign language immersion program.  In TWBIP classrooms, a

combination of native Spanish speakers and native English speakers are taught together in an effort to develop full

bilingualism and biliteracy for both groups of students. All participating students receive instruction in language

arts and content subjects primarily in Spanish in the early grades (K-3) with a grade specific amount of English as a

Second Language/English Language Development instruction incorporated daily. English instruction is gradually

increased through the grade levels (K-3) and by fourth grade instruction is presented in a 50% Spanish/50% English

format.  In grade five, instruction is delivered through a 40% Spanish/60% English mix.  In grades 4-5 the language of

instruction is determined by content area. In fourth grade language arts, reading and mathematics are taught in

Spanish and Science, Social Studies, and English literature are taught in English.  In fifth grade language arts,

reading, mathematics, and science and taught in English and Social Studies and Spanish literature are taught in

Spanish.  LEP students, who meet exit criteria anytime in this program, are reclassified as non-LEP, but remain in the

program with parent permission.

At the secondary level (Middle School/High School) students participating in TWBIPs typically take two-three classes

in Spanish. (1-2 content area classes and an advanced level Spanish Foreign Language course).

Houston ISD currently has ten Elementary TWBIPs, three Middle School TWBIPs, and two High School TWBIPs. Please

contact the Multilingual Dept. (713-556-6961) for more information concerning this program option.