Journal of English Language and Education
Vol 11, No 4 (2026)

English Teaching Strategies For Young Learners In Bilingual Elementary Classes In An EFL Context

Andita Sayla Purnawati (Universitas Negeri Semarang)
Pasca Kalisa (Universitas Negeri Semarang)



Article Info

Publish Date
02 Jul 2026

Abstract

Effective English instruction in bilingual elementary settings is critical for developing young learners’ language competence alongside content knowledge. However, empirical studies on English as a Medium of Instruction (EMI) at the primary level in EFL contexts remain scarce, particularly those documenting actual classroom practices. This study aims to explore English teaching strategies employed by teachers in bilingual elementary classrooms in Indonesia. A descriptive qualitative design was employed, involving two English teachers and one subject teacher selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected via classroom observation, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis, then analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The findings reveal six interconnected strategies: routinized English exposure, activity-based instruction, scaffolding, code-switching, differentiated instruction, and curriculum alignment. These strategies function in an integrated, context-sensitive manner adapted to learners’ developmental stages. The study concludes that effective bilingual elementary instruction requires flexible, student-centered approaches that simultaneously support language acquisition and content comprehension.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jele

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Other

Description

Journal of English Language and Education (pISSN: 2597-6850 and eISSN: 2502-4132) is a journal that focuses on researching or documenting issues in education, language education, applied linguistics, English education, English language teaching, English Literature, language assessment and ...