| FAQ
(Frequently Asked Questions)
How does
the series support English language acquisition?
The Maya & Miguel television show supports
English language acquisition in a variety of ways. The program
shows its characters using natural, conversational language,
and then reinforces the meaning of the dialogue with images
and animation. Presenting new vocabulary to English language
learners is also an important feature of the series. Each
episode focuses on at least three vocabulary words, which
are repeated throughout an episode. (See the TV
Glossary for a full list of the vocabulary words for
each episode.) In addition, Maya & Miguel shows
children that knowing and learning more than one language
can be positive.
How does
the show promote the value of a culturally diverse society?
A respect and appreciation of differences is at the heart
of the Maya & Miguel TV series. The program
shows people from a variety of cultures who take pride in
their traditions, families and native languages, while participating
actively in a diverse U.S. neighborhood. In addition, the
characters show a respect and empathy toward one another.
More
on the Maya & Miguel TV program and philosophy
What age
group is Maya & Miguel designed for?
Children ages 6-11
Why do the
characters on Maya & Miguel speak English and
Spanish?
Maya and Miguel, both bilingual, very often alternate between
English and Spanish when they speak. This is called "code-switching,"
and is common among both bilingual individuals, like Maya
and Miguel, as well as English language learners like their
cousin Tito. One of the goals of Maya & Miguel
is to encourage a positive attitude toward knowing and learning
more than one language. Maya & Miguel shows
the way in which languages other than English can be a natural
part of people's everyday communication.
When is Maya & Miguel
on?
To find out when Maya & Miguel will air in your area,
you can use a local television guide or contact your local
PBS station. Or, if you tell us where you live, the air
times and episodes will show on the localized TV schedule on this site.
Will Maya
& Miguel merchandise be available?
All Maya & Miguel licensed products are currently
in development. Maya & Miguel books will be
available from Scholastic beginning in Spring 2005, and
Maya & Miguel toys and soft goods will be available
at major retailers in Fall 2005.
Do
you have a question about Maya & Miguel, their
friends, or this Web site? Write to us!
If you cannot find the answer to your question
here, send us an e-mail in the Contact
Us section of this site.
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