Enhancing Content and Language Integrated Learning in the classroom

In our increasingly interconnected global landscape, language acquisition is pivotal for fostering cross-cultural communication and understanding. Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) stands out as a potent pedagogical approach merging language acquisition with subject-specific learning. By adeptly blending ICT and game-based tools, multimedia content creation, and dynamic experiential activities, educators can better promote linguistic diversity in education, effectively preparing students for their roles as global citizens.
A recent iteration of the "Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) course for teachers" occurred in Tenerife from 09/06/2024 to 15/06/2024. Participating educators hailed from Germany and Finland, namely Emmi Laitinen, Aline Thomas, Nicole Hafner, and Claudia Pfeil.
Commencing with a vibrant brainstorming session, the CLIL course encouraged participants to share their existing practices and prior knowledge related to CLIL, fostering an environment ripe for knowledge exchange and exploration. The course proceeded with a theoretical examination of CLIL principles, emphasizing the importance of teaching content through a secondary language. Notably, it underscored the teacher's pivotal role in facilitating language integration, thereby creating a robust learning atmosphere conducive to both content mastery and linguistic proficiency. Insights into effective lesson planning within the CLIL framework were provided, equipping participants with valuable tips and techniques for crafting engaging and purposeful CLIL lessons.

Through resource sharing and experiential learning, participants began drafting their own lesson plans, laying a solid foundation for subsequent activities. Moreover, the course delved into the integration of compelling texts and videos in CLIL classrooms to leverage multimedia resources creatively. Participants explored pertinent ICT tools, focusing on practical applications tailored to their specific needs and interests.
​They honed their skills in utilizing these tools to design educational games and interactive presentations seamlessly integrated into their lesson plans. Furthermore, participants were introduced to experiential learning activities enriching CLIL lessons. Effective strategies to foster collaboration and peer learning were explored, facilitating language communication within the subject matter.
Through hands-on experiences, educators gained insights into cultivating an interactive and immersive learning environment. As the course drew to a close, participants shared their finalized lesson plans, showcasing the integration of newly acquired strategies and activities developed throughout the week. This demonstrated their preparedness to cultivate engaging, language-rich CLIL classrooms.
More info on this course here.