Bilingualism, Language Acquisition, and CLIL in Education
Module 1: Bilingualism, Benefits, and Second Language Acquisition
1. Understanding Bilingualism
In the 1950s, it was commonly believed that learning a second language (L2) negatively affected one’s first language (L1) proficiency. However, this view evolved significantly.
In the 1980s, Jim Cummins’ Developmental Interdependence Hypothesis emerged, stating that second language acquisition depends on the development of one’s first language. If students have strong skills in their first language, they
Read MoreFoundations of Language Pedagogy: Innovators, Methods & Classroom Practice
Innovators in Foreign Language Teaching
This section explains the relevance of key innovators in foreign language teaching: Nebrija, Comenius, Madame Leprince, and A.S. Hornby.
Antonio de Nebrija: Pioneer of Spanish Grammar
Nebrija stands out in the history of the Spanish language due to his publication in 1492, La Gramática Castellana. This groundbreaking work on grammar was divided into four parts: one dedicated to spelling, the second to prosody, the third to etymology, and the fourth to syntax.
Read MoreKrausism and the Philosophical Roots of the ILE Education
Philosophical Foundation of the ILE: Krausism
The Institución Libre de Enseñanza (ILE) education is rooted in Krausism, a philosophical current that, through the 18th century, traces back to the Renaissance. This places humanity at the center, asserting that humans have intrinsic value. This is the essence of Humanism, emphasizing the need to train individuals to be valuable members of society. While values are paramount, the development of society is also crucial. This perspective resonated in
Read MoreScientific-Technical Discourse: Structure, Language, & Genres
Understanding Scientific-Technical Discourse
Scientific-technical discourse involves the objective study of physical reality, encompassing both theoretical knowledge and its practical application.
Key Characteristics
- Produced in the field of cultural transmission of knowledge.
- Is verifiable.
- Uses jargon and neologisms.
- Recipients may be experts in the field or simply interested in it.
- Presents a clear logical structure, is precise, and clear.
Principles of Scientific Discourse
- Objectivity: Contents must
The Evolution of Rhetoric Through the Ages
Historical Evolution
1. Rhetoric in the Middle Ages:
– Rhetoric is increasingly losing weight compared to dialectic and grammar.
– However, the desire to safeguard the classics keeps rhetoric alive, mostly in the fields of the arts and religion.
– Rhetoric and its relationship with the poetic are also present in the Middle Ages, as Spang says, “both versified texts and prose writing are considered forms of eloquence.”
2. Rhetoric in the Renaissance:
– Rhetoric and poetics remain closely linked.
Read MoreUnderstanding Different Writing Formats
Narrative Writing Essentials
A narrative tells a story, typically set in the past. It can be based on real events or be entirely imaginary.
Structure
- Paragraph 1: Introduce the characters and explain the background.
- Paragraph 2: Describe the main event(s).
- Paragraph 3: Explain what happened in the end (resolution).
Linkers
Useful linking words include: Also, although, as, as well, because, but.
Useful Expressions
- I will never forget it.
- It was the best day of my life.
Content Tips
- Add detail to make the story