CLIL refers to using an additional language as the medium for teaching non-language subjects. It benefits learners by providing a natural context for language development that enhances motivation. CLIL lessons focus on developing content knowledge, communication skills, thinking skills, and cultural understanding through the additional language. Resources and training are available to help teachers implement CLIL approaches.
2. Common Questions
What is CLIL?
How does CLIL benefit learners?
What are the underlying principles of
CLIL?
What’s different about CLIL lessons?
How do I become a CLIL teacher?
Are there any available resources?
Where can I find out more?
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4. What is CLIL?
CLIL refers to any educational context in
which an additional language, not the
first language of the learners, is used as a
medium in the teaching and learning of
non-language content. Derived from the
notion of ‘Language Across the
Curriculum’
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5. Why CLIL?
Successful language learning can be achieved
when people have the opportunity to experience
real-life situations in which they can acquire the
language.
CLIL is a more natural situation for language
development which builds on other forms of
learning. This natural use of language can
enhance a learner’s motivation towards learning
languages. This naturalness is crucial for CLIL’s
importance and success in relation to both
language and other subject learning.
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7. Research Foundations
It takes 5-7 years for students in a quality bilingual
program to become academically proficient in English.
Language acquisition is not a linear process; it is
cyclical and recursive.
Learners acquire best when they create, discover and
construct their own meanings.
Language is a means not an end, and when learners are
interested in a topic, they will be motivated to acquire
language to communicate.
Semantic fluency precedes grammatical accuracy and
errors are a natural part of language learning.
Learners develop fluency in English by using English to
communicate for a variety of purposes.
Reading is essential for developing academic English
skills.
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8. CLIL Principles
CONTENT
Progression in knowledge, skills and understanding
related to specific elements of a defined curriculum.
COMMUNICATION
Using language to learn - whilst learning to use
language.
COGNITION
Developing thinking skills which link concept
formation, understanding and language
CULTURE
Exposure to alternative perspectives and shared
understandings.
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9. Further Information
The CLIL Compendium
www.clilcompendium.com
Euroclic
www.euroclic.net
Translanguage in Europe
www.tieclil.org
UK National Centre for languages
www.cilt.org.uk
NILE
www.nile-elt.com
FACT
www.factworld.info/uk
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10. Further Information
The CLIL Compendium
www.clilcompendium.com
Euroclic
www.euroclic.net
Translanguage in Europe
www.tieclil.org
UK National Centre for languages
www.cilt.org.uk
NILE
www.nile-elt.com
FACT
www.factworld.info/uk
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