Formative Language Assessment for Bilingual Science Teachers: A Case Study

Abstract

Bilingual education is increasingly being implemented in Spanish primary education. Teacher education is one of the numerous challenges that must be faced in this context. This paper suggests formative assessment through peer observation as a possible tool to contribute to bilingual teacher education. The paper begins by highlighting the importance of linguistic support provided by teachers to students in bilingual learning. Then, the advantages and limitations of peer observation as formative assessment are considered. Subsequently, an instrument for formative evaluation is proposed and implemented in the observation of a science teacher working in year two of primary education. Results of the observation show the most frequent types of support and provide guidance for the teacher to improve her practice.