Here in Capistrano Unified School District, there has been a commitment to be innovative and have a look into the future.   One very innovative initiative has been the launch of the Mandarin Immersion Program as noted in the Marian Bergeson Elementary School Website.   The following objectives have been outlined: 

• Bilingualism:  development of high levels of proficiency in Mandarin and English
• Biliteracy: academic achievement  at or above grade level in academic areas in both languages
• Multiculturalism:  demonstrate positive cross-cultural attitudes and behaviors and high levels of self-esteem

The Program model is structured as outlined below: 

The Mandarin curriculum is based on ACTFL language standards (American Council on The Teaching of Foreign Languages) and Common Core State Standards are integrated into the curriculum.     As noted on the Bergeson Website, the curriculum snapshot is outlined below:

Grades K-1: Academic subjects taught in Mandarin (literacy, math, science and social science). Traditional characters are introduced. English literacy and oral language development are taught daily.

Grade 2:  Most academic subjects are taught in Mandarin and there is continued development of English reading and writing. Literacy development is traditional characters continues.

Grades 3-5:  Instruction in academic subjects is evenly balanced between English and Mandarin. Students in third through fifth grades begin to develop skills in Pinyin(written expression through technology).