Cloud, Genesee, & Hamayan (2000). Dual language instruction: A
handbook for enriched education. Boston, MA: Heinle & Heinle
Publishers. In a section entitled, "What should we do about code
switching?" the authors suggest the following guiding
consideration: "Code switching may be misinterpreted as an
incapacity to separate the two languages properly. This is
rarely the case. Studies have shown that code switching by
fluent bilinguals is rule-governed and is used in a highly
controlled way. It is used to convey subtle meanings, to show
identification with speakers of the other language, and to
accommodate the listener. It is also used as an indicator of
dual identity. Code switching is often evidence of linguistic
creativity and sophistication, and it is no cause for alarm"
(pp. 63-65). The authors go on to proscribe the following
warnings about allowing code switching in the classroom: keep
use of each language separate from the other, to clarify
appropriate settings for each until proficiency is attained, st