Which term describes programs that improve skills in both a student's first language and English?

Additive bilingualism refers to educational programs that support the development of a student's proficiency in both their first language and English, enhancing their skills in both languages simultaneously. This approach acknowledges and values the student's primary language while promoting English acquisition, fostering a richer linguistic and cultural identity. Programs based on additive bilingualism aim for bilingualism and biliteracy, providing students with the cognitive, academic, and social benefits associated with being proficient in multiple languages.

In contrast, subtractive bilingualism typically involves a scenario where the first language skills are diminished or lost while learning a second language, potentially leading to language erosion. Transitional bilingualism focuses on helping students transition from their first language to English, often with the goal of eventual proficiency in English alone, which does not foster dual language development. Monolingual education refers to instruction that occurs solely in one language, typically neglecting the first language of students, which does not support bilingual development.