New microsite promotes innovation in language teaching

3 April 2008

Those teaching languages to the 14-19 age group can now draw on a new resource launched by CILT, the National Centre for Languages.

The new microsite, ‘Reshaping Languages’ has been designed to respond closely to the recommendations in Lord Dearing’s 2007 Languages Review, as part of a move to promote innovative practice across a wide range of language requirements.

The site is illustrated with a collection of videos and case studies highlighting how new approaches to language provision can re-engage learners, inspire enjoyment and increase take-up of languages from age 14 onwards.

‘Reshaping Languages’ provides information for language leaders as well as tips for teachers in the MFL classroom, offering information on policy and curriculum change as well as the chance to watch good language teaching in practice. The wide-ranging selection of videos includes interviews with innovative teaching practitioners as well as examples of effective classroom activity.

The microsite is divided into twelve themes, including ‘Diplomas and work related’, ‘Alternative accreditation’, Languages ladder’, ‘Further Education’ and ‘Use of target language’, the majority of which are accompanied by case studies and/or videos illustrating good practice across each area.

A news page on the microsite provides up-to-date coverage of all the latest developments affecting the 14-19 sector, while a resource page provides links to useful websites as well as downloadable resources.

The new 14-19 ‘Reshaping Languages’ can be found at www.cilt.org.uk/14to19