CLILL( Content and Language Integrated Learning) and Content Based Instruction
Clill is not a new idea, but it has become increasingly popular in European schools in the last few years. The idea is that using content from other subjects enhances both the topic being covered and the language use.
For example: a French school might decide to teach Maths through the medium of English. The language is learned by doing the mathematics. It seems to work well in immersion schools in Canada, where the lessons are taught in French to English speaking children. The children learn their lesson topics perfectly well and they use LOTS of language. They still make the odd mistake, but the language is approaching native level.
Of course, in English for Special Purposes, such as for Pilots, Secretaries, or Agricultural Scientists, this is standard. The material chosen will be designed specifically to suit their purposes.
Using the correct material is important and when students can see the relevance of the language being used in such a natural way, they are motivated to make progress.
For example: a French school might decide to teach Maths through the medium of English. The language is learned by doing the mathematics. It seems to work well in immersion schools in Canada, where the lessons are taught in French to English speaking children. The children learn their lesson topics perfectly well and they use LOTS of language. They still make the odd mistake, but the language is approaching native level.
Of course, in English for Special Purposes, such as for Pilots, Secretaries, or Agricultural Scientists, this is standard. The material chosen will be designed specifically to suit their purposes.
Using the correct material is important and when students can see the relevance of the language being used in such a natural way, they are motivated to make progress.