Are you a teacher and looking for new methods to bring into your classroom?
One of our teachers at ATC, Sarah, would recommend CLIL. Here is some background to CLIL and why Sarah suggests using it to freshen up the language classroom…
Are you tired of the traditional language teaching methods? Are you searching for a way to make language learning more engaging and contextual? Or are you a primary or secondary level teacher who wants to bring language learning into your curriculum subject?
Enter CLIL: Content and Language Integrated Learning. In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore exactly what CLIL is, how CLIL works, and why it’s a game-changer for language teachers.
What is CLIL?
CLIL, a term coined by Professor David Marsh of the University of Jyväskylä in Finland in 1994, is a methodology that involves teaching subjects to students in a language that is not their mother tongue.
CLIL combines two key elements:
- The Subject: This can range from academic topics like maths, science, history and geography to practical skills taught in a classroom setting.
- The Medium of Instruction: This refers to the language used inside the classroom to convey the subject matter.
At its core, CLIL embodies the integration of subject-specific content with the simultaneous development of language proficiency. Unlike traditional language classes that operate in isolation, CLIL transcends boundaries by seamlessly integrating language acquisition into the fabric of subject instruction.
One of the distinguishing features of CLIL is its departure from the conventional paradigm of language instruction. It’s crucial to recognise that CLIL classes are not mere language sessions; rather, they represent immersive subject-based learning experiences conducted entirely in a foreign language. This empowers students to absorb both content knowledge and linguistic skills at the same time, fostering a more holistic approach to learning.
Within the framework of CLIL, students are immersed in authentic learning environments where the target language serves as the medium of instruction. As they delve into diverse subject areas ranging from mathematics and science to history and literature, learners are presented with opportunities to engage deeply with concepts while refining their language proficiency organically. Through meaningful interactions with subject-specific materials, discussions, and activities, students naturally acquire language skills in context, enhancing their comprehension and communicative abilities.
Moreover, the integration of language learning within subject instruction offers numerous benefits for both educators and learners alike. For teachers, CLIL provides a platform to cultivate cross curricular connections and to foster a dynamic learning environment conducive to discovery learning. Meanwhile, students benefit from enhanced cognitive development, increased cultural awareness, and improved language fluency as they navigate diverse content areas through the lens of language acquisition.
In essence, CLIL represents a paradigm shift in educational practice, transcending traditional boundaries to empower learners with the tools they need to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. By bridging the gap between content and language, CLIL not only expands students’ intellectual horizons but also equips them with the critical skills and competencies necessary for lifelong learning and global citizenship.
How Does CLIL Work?
CLIL relies on the principle of learning language in context. Every vocabulary word, phrase, and concept taught is immediately relevant and meaningful within the context of the subject being studied. This approach enables students to acquire language skills as they need them, mirroring the natural process of language acquisition.
Example 1:
Imagine a high school biology class in Italy, where students are learning about ecology and environmental science. The class is conducted entirely in English, providing students with an immersive language learning experience while delving into complex scientific concepts.
During the course, students engage in hands-on experiments, such as testing water quality in local rivers and studying biodiversity in nearby forests. They collect data, analyse results, and present their findings—all in English. As they work through the scientific process, students not only gain a deeper understanding of ecological principles but also develop their English language skills, from technical vocabulary to scientific communication.
Through CLIL, students are not only learning about the natural world but also mastering a second language in a dynamic and engaging environment.
Example 2:
Think of a primary class of ten year old pupils in Spain who are doing a project about Ireland. This project could be carried out either fully or partially in English. They might delve into traditional Irish music and its instruments in music class, learn about its rich Celtic and Viking history in history class, its unique ancient sports in P.E. and explore its varied landscapes in geography class. This cross-curricular approach to a topic or project is an integral feature of CLIL at primary level, in enriching students’ understanding of their subject while providing a holistic language learning experience.
Why is CLIL Effective? Unveiling Its Underlying Principles
Language Learning in Context: CLIL provides a rich and authentic context for language acquisition, making learning more meaningful and memorable for students.
Natural Language Acquisition: Just as children learn their first language through immersion and interaction, CLIL mimics this natural process, focusing on comprehension rather than explicit grammar instruction.
Motivation through Subject Interest: By integrating language learning with subjects of interest, CLIL taps into students’ intrinsic motivation, making the learning process more engaging and enjoyable.
How can you use CLIL in Language Classes?
Even if you’re not an expert in other subjects, you can still incorporate CLIL principles into your language classes. Here’s how:
- Choose a topic of interest that lends itself to meaningful language practice.
- Create a context-rich learning environment, focusing on real-life scenarios and practical applications.
- Avoid direct translation and immerse students in the target language through interactive activities and authentic materials.
- Encourage active engagement and critical thinking, allowing students to learn language naturally in context.
What does that look like in practice?
- Choose a Topic: Select a specific aspect of environmental conservation that interests your students, such as renewable energy sources or wildlife conservation.
- Create a Context-Rich Learning Environment: Set the scene by discussing real-life environmental issues and their impact on the world. Show videos or images related to the topic to provide visual context and spark discussion.
- Avoid Direct Translation: Instead of translating environmental terms directly into students’ native language, encourage them to learn the vocabulary in context. Use interactive activities such as group discussions, role-plays, or simulations to reinforce language learning.
- Immerse Students in the Target Language: Provide authentic materials such as news articles, research papers, or TED talks on environmental topics. Have students read, analyse, and discuss these materials in English, encouraging them to express their opinions and ideas in the target language.
- Encourage Active Engagement: Engage students in hands-on activities related to environmental conservation, such as organising a recycling drive, planting trees, or conducting a campus cleanup. These practical applications not only reinforce language skills but also promote active learning and critical thinking.
Incorporating CLIL into your teaching repertoire can revolutionise the way you approach language instruction. By providing students with meaningful context and authentic experiences, CLIL empowers them to become confident and proficient language learners.
Welcome to the world of CLIL; where language teaching transcends boundaries and opens doors to new opportunities!
Are you a teacher and would like to learn more about CLIL in person?
See the courses that we offer at ATC, including CLIL for Primary Teachers, and CLIL for Secondary Teachers.
All of our courses are eligible for Erasmus+ funding and you can see the full selection of courses for teacher training and development here – ATC Teachers Courses or contact us for information on info@atcireland.ie