The Use of Translanguaging Strategies in Swedish Lower Primary Schools : How Students Use Translanguaging Strategies in the English Classroom and Teacher’s Perceptions

Abstract:   Multilingualism is becoming the new norm in Swedish schools due to the growth of the Swedish population and increased immigration. Students learning English often find themselves with more than one language in their repertoire and they need a way to use it. The focus of this study is on the use of translanguaging strategies during English class in grades 1 and 3, and how teachers perceive the use of those strategies.  The background and definition of translanguaging, as well as previous studies including teachers’ attitudes and the advantages of translanguaging are presented. Data is collected through non-participating classroom observations and semi-structured interviews with teachers.  Findings of this study show that students tend to switch between English and Swedish during English class, with other languages used in the case of newly arrived students. Findings also show that the participating teachers have a generally positive perception on the use of translanguaging strategies in the English classroom.