What is CLIL and why do I need it?

CLIL, Content and Language Integrated Learning, is an approach to teaching where subjects are taught in a language that is not the students' first language. For example, science or history might be taught in English to students whose first language is not English. As a teacher, CLIL can be a valuable tool for several reasons:

Language Development:  CLIL provides an immersive language learning environment where students are exposed to the target language in a meaningful context. This can greatly enhance their language skills, including vocabulary acquisition, fluency, and comprehension.

Content Learning:  By teaching subjects in a second language, students are not only learning language skills but also gaining knowledge in other academic areas. This interdisciplinary approach allows students to develop a deeper understanding of both the subject matter and the language.

Cultural Awareness:  CLIL encourages students to engage with different cultures and perspectives, as they explore subjects from a global standpoint. This can foster cultural awareness and empathy, important skills in our interconnected world.

Cognitive Skills:  Engaging with content in a second language challenges students cognitively, leading to improved problem-solving abilities, critical thinking skills, and academic resilience.

Preparation for Global Citizenship: 

In today's globalized world, proficiency in more than one language is increasingly valuable. CLIL equips students with the language skills and cultural competence they need to communicate and collaborate effectively across borders.

As a teacher, implementing CLIL can enrich your teaching practice by offering a dynamic and interactive approach to language and content instruction. It allows you to cater to diverse learners and create an inclusive classroom environment where students can thrive academically and linguistically.