Bilingual Storytime Formats
The formats recommended here were first observed at the Second Reforma National Conference in 2000. These were then revised and presented at the Public Library Association Conference in 2004 by Adrian Barrientos, Diana Borrego, Lorena Mata, and Ana-Elba Pavon. Thank you to these Reformistas for sharing their expertise.
Format 1—Alternating Languages
- The book is read one page at a time; first read the page in one language and then read the same page in the other language.
- This format works best with two people—two voices.
- Good books: A bicycle for Rosaura / Rosaura en bicicleta by Daniel Barbot.
Format 2—One at a Time
- The entire book is read in one language and then the same book is read in the other language.
- This format works best with short stories and short songs. It is preferably done with two people, but can be done by one person.
- Good books: I hear a noise by Diane Goode. 10 little rubber ducks / 10 patitos de goma by Eric Carle.
- Good songs: Good morning / Buenos días by José Luis Orozco
- NOTE: A variation of this format is to read one entire book in one language and then a different book in the other language. This works well with older bilingual audiences; one person can read both languages.
Format 3—Dominant Language
- The book is read predominantly in one language with key words or phrases repeated (emphasized) in the other language.
- This format works very well when the reader is not fluent in the second language, but is willing to learn key words or phrases.
- Good books: Uno, dos, tres / One, two, three by Pat Mora. Chato’s kitchen by Gary Soto. Fiesta fiasco by Ann Whitford Paul.
Format 4—Code-Switching
- The book is presented by switching from one language to the other while still maintaining the grammatical consistency of both languages.
- This format works best with one bilingual reader comfortable switching languages back and forth.
- Good books: Borreguita and the coyote by Verna Aardema.