CLIL Framework: Language, Pedagogy, and Planning

Information and knowledge represented in a variety of media and formats, supporting the achievement of intended learning outcomes. These adhere to the objectives and requirements of a regional or national curriculum.

The Three Dimensions of Language in CLIL

• Language of Learning

  This explores the language learners will need to access new knowledge and understanding when dealing with content. It is the content-obligatory language, such as key words, phrases, and grammatical demands of the unit.

• Language for Learning

  This is a crucial element for successful CLIL, as it clarifies the language learners need to operate in a learning environment where the medium is not their first language. It is the language students will need during lessons to carry out planned activities effectively and how it is taught.

• Language Through Learning

  New language will emerge through learning. Not all CLIL language needs can be planned for. As new knowledge, skills, and understanding develop, so too will new language. Moreover, as language is linked to cognitive processing, it is important to utilize opportunities (both spontaneous and planned) to advance learning and encourage learners to articulate their understanding, which in turn fosters new learning.

Benefits of Effective Curriculum Materials

• Helps to ensure comprehensive coverage.
• Saves significant planning time.
• Helps to identify necessary resources.
• Offers useful support as a teacher develops confidence and knowledge.
• Provides exciting resources for children and teachers to use.

Key Principles for CLIL Success

• Making learning intentions (language, content, learning skills) and processes visible.
• Systematically fostering academic language proficiency.
• Fostering learning skill development and learner autonomy.
• Including self, peer, and other types of formative assessment.
• Helping create a safe learning environment.
• Fostering cooperative learning.
• Seeking ways to incorporate authentic language and authentic language use.
• Fostering critical thinking.
• Fostering cognitive fluency through scaffolding content, language, and learning skill development.
• Helping to make learning meaningful.

Core Principles of CLIL Effectiveness

For CLIL to be effective, it must challenge learners to create new knowledge and develop new skills through reflection and engagement in both higher-order thinking (hypothesizing and problem-solving) and lower-order thinking (remembering, understanding, and applying new knowledge). CLIL is about enabling individuals to construct their own understandings and be challenged, regardless of age or ability.

The CLIL Planning Pyramid

The CLIL pyramid suggests a systematic sequence for planning CLIL units and materials, starting with topic selection and concluding with a review of key content and language.