English language learning
Many schools profiled on
the Global Gateway are seeking help with English language
learning.
A UK school might consider English language learning to be
of little direct benefit to them, but with imagination, the
medium of English can be used for projects that work in the UK
curriculum - particularly literacy, history, citizenship, RE and
literature.
In the UK school - widening
participation
A project on English the UK school has learners who do not
speak English as their first language, activities and projects with
the partner school that focus on English language learning make a
fantastic resource. Through this work all children in the class
learn to use English more clearly, simply and precisely. Children
who may be marginalised or unable to participate in other lessons
can be included.
...meeting languages strategy objectives
Where the UK school is primary, the partner school can offer a
taster of their native language and culture, which fulfills
language strategy objectives.
Where the UK school is middle or secondary, the partner school
can participate in a discussion on a chosen theme to extend and
enhance a citizenship or history debate. More>>>
In the non-UK school - adding diversity
Be flexible: overseas schools can partner with UK primaries to
bring cultural diversity.
Countries such as Iran, Egypt, Russia, Turkey, China, Japan,
Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, India, Pakistan, Poland, Spain,
France and many others could benefit from this model.
A secondary school class learning English, could partner with
a primary school class in England.
An example
Choose a book in your native language from
Try to find one that reflects the culture of your country, or
the natural landscapes or people's lifestyle. There might be a
traditional folk tale, or a picture book that reflects
traditional art. The links above offer many dual language
books.
The UK children will write simple letters to you telling you
what they enjoyed about the book.
If you mail some UK primary schools
offering them this idea for Literacy Hour or Primary Languages
Strategy, then you will be sure to get some replies!
As part of a joint curriculum project, Bury St Edmunds County
Upper School and Keio Shonan Fujisawa High School produced a
booklet of games in English, Japanese and German, with
the aim of introducing games which may help to expand on
topics in the Citizenship curriculum, particularly those related to
interpersonal relationships and self awareness.
You can
download this booklet
and try it out with your partner schools.