Which option accurately describes immersion bilingual programs and their models?

• A. Subtractive English Immersion
• B. Early total (90-10 model)
• C. Sheltered English
• D. Structured English Immersion

Answer: (B)

Immersion programs build bilingualism by teaching content mainly in a second language from the start, with varying amounts of the native language used to support understanding. The option described here is early total immersion, often implemented as a 90-10 model: students receive most instruction in the second language in the early grades (about nine-tenths) and a small portion in their native language to support comprehension, with the balance shifting over time toward greater second-language exposure.

This approach contrasts with subtractive English immersion, which replaces the native language with English in a way that can erode L1 literacy and use. Sheltered English involves teaching content in English but with scaffolds and supports to make the language accessible, not full immersion in the second language. Structured English immersion aims for English-only instruction with explicit linguistic structures and supports. The early total immersion model best matches the idea of immersion programs by prioritizing extensive exposure to the second language from early on, hence the 90-10 description.