Understanding Language for Learning in Multilingual Schools (Online Course)

About the course

For multilingual learners using English as an Additional Language (EAL), proficiency in English can be a barrier preventing full access to the curriculum and meaningful engagement in classroom activities.

This course for international school staff is the first in a set of two courses covering Language for Learning. This first course aims to increase your understanding of particular features of the English language which research has shown to be more problematic for learners using EAL. Armed with this information, you will be in a better position to support learners who use EAL to access and understand curriculum content.

The second course in the series, Embedding Language for Learning in Multilingual Schools, focuses mainly on academic English; it aims to develop participants’ academic language awareness and help teaching staff plan and teach lessons that develop academic language for learners using EAL. You are welcome to enrol on the second course whether you have completed the first course in the series or not, but if you think that both courses would be of benefit to you, we strongly recommend you complete them in the suggested order.

Course content includes:  

• Understanding the importance of all teachers supporting language development.  
• Introducing terminology used to talk about language.  
• Common difficulties that learners who use EAL have with specific language structures that appear in academic contexts.  
• Techniques and activities for supporting learners to acquire academic language patterns. 

Tickets are available for both primary and secondary practitioners in international schools.  A certificate will be awarded for successful completion of the course.